‘’ So won’t you please spare me indignity? And won’t you please give me some decency? And won’t you please call it if our time is through? ‘Cause I know that we fall apart when nothing’s new . . . Nothing’s new! ‘’
˖⁺‧₊˚🎧☁️🕶️ ˚₊‧⁺˖
ooc :
Hello! Welcome to my VSMP rp blog! Here you can talk to Allen, the only source of non-bloodthirsty or paranoid entertainment in Oakhurst! Before I hand the mic back over to him, there’s a few things I’d like to say …
_ Mod uses they/them pronouns
_ Nothing NSFW
_ Shipping is not only accepted, but encouraged!
_ Racism, Homo/Transphobia, Ableism and other forms of hate are not welcome here - this is a safe space!
_ OCs from other fandoms are welcome to interact
_ Mod is very busy and also isn’t the best at social cues or interactions, so just correct them &/or be respectful
Now with all that out of the way, let’s focus back on Allen …
When there is drama. The most important thing is to be informed
right now there is drama in the MCYT Fandom.
As of June 7 2026 Avidmc and Marma1ade have quit content creation.
Also as of June 7 2026, creators from the Minecraft server Skyblock Kingdoms (sbk) have come forward about “irrevocable damage [Avidmc and Marma1ade] have caused to SBK and its friends” (quote from Sbk statement on twitter) and have removed them from the server.
Below is a time line of statements, with links to the original, for ease of access. However I want to make clear that every one of these statements does not ask for aggression or violence against anyone, infact many implore the reader not to send any hate or aggression. Instead these statements ask for caution. ⚠️ do not attack anyone for who they support. Do not send hate to anyone involved. Doing so will get you banned across platforms, and make you a shitty person. ⚠️
This is purely for information collection and gathering. Make judgments based on your values and verifiable fact.
8:38 pst(or pdt? Idk pacific time for all of this*) Avid sends an announcement to his discord, announcing he is quitting content creation
He left his discord sometime after.
link to the discord from his offline twitch chat
A hub for Minecraft Adventurers | 7330 members
[unknown time, image received second hand. Discord invitation, acquired through her twitch chat, has been disabled] Marm quits content creation
12:00pdt Mulitiple creators post at the same time. In no particular order
Skyblock Kingdoms twitter post:
Nukeri/Nuke twitter post:
Nukeri/nuke Google doc statement:
AMy Statement regarding AvidMC and Marma1ade Please do not take this statement as an excuse to send any hate or aggression to anyone involv
Legundo twitter post:
Doovid twitter post:
12:01 pdt VikingPilot twitter post:
12:01pdt Musithical tumblr post:
💬 19 🔁 126 ❤️ 550 · i am no longer going to be working with AvidMc
over the past several days, i have talked with dozens of people who ha
This post is made by me to spread information and awareness. I am not affiliated with anyone from Skyblock Kingdoms and these statements came from the creators themselves.
AvidMc and Marma1ade have been toxic, manipulative, and not great people to other members of Skyblock Kingdoms and other creators. They framed themselves as victims. Because of this, they have now been removed from any SMPs they were participating in.
Here is the official statement from Skyblock Kingdoms:
Below cut is statements from other creators including: Legundo, LeonSBU, vintageapplesauce, Musithical, Doovid, and Nukeri.
Legundo's Statement (from Twitter [x]):
Musithical's Statement (from Discord also on Tumblr):
Vintagapplesauce's Statement (from Discord):
Doovid's Statement (from Twitter [x]):
Nukeri's Statement (from Twitter [x]):
LeonSBU's Statement (from Discord):
As ALL of these creators have stated, do not harass anyone involved in the situation. This post is to help not spread misinformation. More statements will be added if I can find and ensure the statements are directly from the creators.
AvidMC and Marma1ade have made their own statements that I will not be including here, though they will not be making anymore content.
Please be respectful and remember I am not affiliated with anyone involved in this situation, I am just providing information.
It will be quick, and then they can have a good time. That’s what Allen keeps telling himself as he waits just outside the castle. He wouldn’t say it, and you can never really tell, but he’s scared. Terrified, actually. And for good reason. The last time he was given a mission like this, he almost met the same fate as his family. Of course, he was inexperienced and insecure back then. Today he’s prepared. Today, there’s something worth fighting to return to.
—
@onyx-of-oakhurst + anyone else who feels like joining! the setting is a gala (see prev rp starter)
“Hello love” They purred, walking up besides Allen. “You ready to have some fun with this?” They were attempting to not only ease their own nerves about the banquet-but also their lover’s.
They smiled in return, grasping Allen’s hand and they walking into the grand doors. “I’m sure you’ll be great” They whispered to him as they swept a gaze across the already crowded dance floor.
{ He rolled his eyes, searching for that old, wretched face, and thankfully, it wasn’t long before he found it hidden in conversation with other fanciful folk. He purred, turning to press a quick kiss to Onyx’s cheek }
‘’ I sincerely hope you’re right. I’ll be right back, dear. ‘’
{ And with that, his smile fell and his hand broke away from theirs as he disappeared into the crowd, only being seen as he left to the balcony with his old boss joined by arm. One can only wish him luck that he does not get caught a second time }
They watched as he went, but only for a moment as he was soon lost by the crowd. They resigned themselves to simply swaying to the music played by the band.
{ True to his word, it wasn’t long before he was back down from the balcony, with no one else following behind. Despite seeing Onyx clearly, he headed straight for one of the doors to outside, seemingly to catch a breath. As glad that he is that it’s over with, he can’t help but ache and shake, remembering the way the moon caught him again falling someone for another’s gain }
They glanced over at Allen, happy to see that he was alright. A body swiftly moved in from of their gaze, crow black hair swooping in front of their face.
“May I have this dance?”
Something about the figure seemed familiar- ‘Surely it’s not him?! Maybe he won’t remember me. It was a year ago after all.’
They flicked their gaze to the man’s hand, grasping it nervously. “Of course.”
{ Still outside, he wandered the gardens before spotting a bench and sitting down upon it. With a wary glance around the empty garden, his form shifted, with that familiar, bloodied coral resuming its usually unseen position. He closed his eyes briefly, though what happened should’ve been years for any regular folk. Still, within a few seconds he stood and walked again into the ballroom, grabbing a drink only to be caught by a familiar face }
“Allen! There’s my fiery hand! How has the night treated you so far?”
{ The king’s questioning look at his coral didn’t fly past unnoticed, but he didn’t bring it up, either, instead focusing on the conversation ahead, and how to get out of it }
‘’ Wonderful. Just took a trip up to the balcony and the moon was such a marvelous sight. Oh! And these drinks? Splendid. Thank you for informing me which is which. ‘’
They nervously shuffled along the basics of the dance- some old slow folk song they hardly knew. The taller man seemed confident in his movements, perhaps holding on a little too tightly to the vampire’s hands.
“Now what’s a lovely young person like you doing all alone at such a large party like this?”
They swallowed, avoiding eye contact with the man. “Oh, you know how it goes-just out for a friendly bit of dancing and maybe some drinks.” They thought maybe it wouldn’t be wise to mention Allen to the man.
{ The king smiled, nodding to acknowledge the secret phrase exchanged. Though, his smile dimmed when he recalled how Allen typically is after a job }
“Don’t suppose you’ll be sticking around much longer?”
{ At that, a crooked smile crossed Allen’s face as he pulled a miniature hourglass out of a hidden pocket. He twirled it back and forth, eyes focused on it before they snap up to the crown }
‘’ Ohhh noooo, I think I’ll be around a moment longer. Can’t let the night go to waste, now, can we? ‘’
{ Before another word can be spoken, the king is pulled off into a conversation with some up-starts while Allen shifts his focus to the search of the ballroom, temptations nagging at the back of his mind }
The song finally came to an end and Onyx was more than happy to step back when the man tightened his grip on their arm.
“Oh, another dance please. I insist.”
They froze, reluctantly following his footsteps to the next song. ‘It’s fear’ they told themselves as they danced ‘surely it’s just fear. That’s normal’ They caught a glimpse of his eyes behind his hair- blood red. ‘It’s him’ the realization dawned on them as they fought to take unneeded breaths.
{ He circled around the dance floor, giving and accepting short dance requests before coming upon Onyx and their odd pair. Though, he walked away quickly enough, only to join the band on stage and switch with the current bass player, who clearly needed a breather. With a charming smile and easy attitude, Allen convinces the band to all take a break, promising that he’ll watch over their instruments while they get a drink. And with that, the music goes on an eerie pause, the only sound being the gentle tapping of sand in his hourglass as it makes contact with the bottom }
They could not have been more grateful for the lull in music as they quickly scrambled backwards from him. “St-stay away from me!” They hissed, trying to disappear into the crowd.
“Oh come on love, I’m not doing any harm. Let’s just put the past in the past Onyx.”
They shook their head frantically. “I said stay away Corvin!” They shrieked, spotting Allen on the stage. ‘Oh thank the saints’ They weaved in between people, heading for the stage as fast as they could- most likely with their former side pursuing.
{ The entire commotion doesn’t fall on empty ears. In fact, Allen’s quick to lay the bass in its case as he heads towards the end of the stage, picking Onyx up and urging them to take his previous seat as he faces the oh-so aggressively average man }
‘’ Do you have a problem, sir? I promise, the band will be making their return very soon. In the meantime, I’m taking requests. Do you have any? ‘’
Onyx sat down heavily, eyes wide and frightened before they watched Allen handle it. Honestly- they should be more concerned for Allen right now but they were too wrapped up in their panic. They heard the conversation between the two.
“No problems here. Just catching up with an old acquaintance. I’ll wait for the band to come back.”
Corvin’s voice was as silky smooth as before- it sent shivers down their spine.
{ He purrs, tilting his head to the side thoughtfully }
‘’ Ohh, but I’m not sure that your ‘old acquaintance’ wants to catch up with you. ‘’
{ He snaps his fingers, as if finally catching an idea }
‘’ Tell you what, how about I tell your fortune for you, huh? I’m quite knowledgeable like that. Let’s see . . . ‘’
{ It’s a hidden movement as he reaches behind for the hourglass, which spins around before shifting into a diamond blade, warped by ocean tides and wrapped in coral. Infused in it is decorative iron used to be reminiscent of the stars, but now, it serves a purpose as Allen points it straight at Corvin’s throat }
‘’ . . . I think that you’ll leave this town for good if you want to keep not only your head, but also those that you need. After all, I’m not above a little massacre, it’s what I do, and I’ve been craving it all night. ‘’
Onyx’s eyes widened as they saw Allen pull the knife before gawking at the out of character response from Corvin.
“Woah now darling, let’s calm down. I’ll just leave and you lot can continue your night in peace.”
Corvin held his hands up warily, taking a half step back, something odd flickering in his eyes. Surely he wasnt scared right? Onyx had lived personally maybe too personally with this man for over a year and never seen him scared. They stood and walked up behind Allen with newfound confidence at his lover’s approach.
Onyx bared their unusually sharp teeth at Corvin. “You heard him.” They snapped, confident at Allen’s side.
They watched as Corvin gave a low growl before sulking off into the crowd. As soon as he disappeared, Onyx let out an unneeded shaky breath. “Thank you.”
{ He nods, twirling the blade back into an hourglass before he grabs their hand and pulls them backstage. Even when they’re hidden by the curtains—out of all prying eyes—he refuses to let go of their hand }
‘’ Are you okay? Holy- Onyx, do I need to go after him? I will! It’s tempting, believe me. I was not joking about all that, I will become the Owen of this town if I must . . . oh, my love . . . ‘’
{ He reaches his other hand to cup their cheek, gently rubbing his thumb across it. All confidence that he portrayed is melted away to reveal something softer; duller despite its broken edges }
Their eyes were slightly frantic as they subconsciously leaned into his hand. “I-uh maybe? I do-don’t know. I’m sorry. I’m really sorry.” They shut their eyes, trying to take stuttering breaths to calm themselves down.
{ He doesn’t wait much of a second, searching their face for any cues before pulling them into a hug. He moves his hands to wrap around them, gently rubbing their back }
‘’ It’s not your fault. There’s no need to be sorry. I’m sorry you have to deal with him. No one deserves that. You’re okay now. You’re safe. Just breathe. ‘’
They nuzzled into the nook of Allen’s shoulder. Their breaths eventually evened out until they stopped entirely. Maybe their body was actually calm now. They pulled back a bit, still staying in Allen’s arms. It was comforting. “Sorry, you shouldn’t have to deal with this too- I know tonight was already stressful for you. I mean- what are the chances he just happens to show up at the same gala and dance with me…”
They smiled at the kiss, nodding slowly. “If you’re sure…” they were a bit uncertain about that. “You’re hot when you’re threatening.” They teased, trying to take their mind off of the fact that Corbin knew more than they were comfortable with about where they were, why they looked like now, and… Allen.
{ He smiles only briefly before their tease registered, and his face grew red in an instant. Immediately he covers his face with his hands, whining at his current circumstances }
‘’ Don’t say that . . . I’m not! There’s nothing hot about that! . . . I don’t need people figuring out a new way to tease me. ‘’
They smiled, flicking his nose with a finger as they lifted one of his hands up. “It is! It’s nice to know someone is there to protect me in such a threatening manner.” They purred at Allen’s red face. oh how the turns have tabled.
{ He only flustered even more, lowering his other hand, though he still doesn’t meet their gaze }
‘’ I hate you . . . ‘’
{ After a second, he kisses them, pulling away with the light dragging of his fangs on their lower lip, hoping despite himself that maybe it’ll stop the teasing for a bit }
They purred, flashing a toothy grin at him. “Sure you do.” They leaned back in again, anxiety temporarily diminished with Allen. They leaned into the kiss before pulling back. “How long is the band away for?”
They shook their head. “I’m fine with it- they might be a little spooked to see two strangers backstage.” They didn’t really want to dance right now- it seemed too recent from earlier. “Maybe we go and get something to drink?”
{ Soon enough, they reach the table, and he lets go of their hand to take one of the bottles and drink . . . but he almost immediately slams the bottle down again, wary of the taste reminding them of that body- . . . is she still up there? Spirits, he really is like Pyro . . . }
They stood at the table, connecting some of the dots between Allen’s reaction and the bits of fired blood speckling his mouth. “Here,” they extended their wrist to him. “It’ll taste different.”
{ His eyes widen at their offering, though it’s not long before he inevitably sinks his teeth into it. Thankfully, it does taste different. In fact, it tastes much better than any others he’s tried in a long time . . . but he has to pull away. Both for his reputation and to keep his lover semiconscious }
They nodded, sitting down to combat the minor dizziness. “Of course love.” They reached out with their other hand, grabbing the bottle and taking a swig. “Send my thanks to the king- this is pretty good.”
{ He nods, licking the remaining blood from his lips as he grabs a chair to sit next to them in. He takes their wrist in his hand, gently rubbing his thumb over the wound before lifting it up to his mouth a pressing a kiss to it before letting it fall to their side again }
The purred at the movement. “Kisses make everything better right?” They chuckled a bit, watching the band come back to the stage. “How did you end up on stage? I didn’t know you played.”
{ He hums, smiling just a smidge as he watches the band pick up their instruments. The bass player waves at him, and he does so as well before turning to face Onyx better }
‘’ There’s a lot of things you don’t know about me, dove. I do know how to play, in fact I’m an expert at double bass, and given a few days, I can typically pick up any instrument. Though . . . ever since Oakhurst I’ve stopped playing. Not for any particularly odd reason, I just haven’t had much time, and that town is very draining to any motivation one may have. ‘’
They watched the band before listening to Allen. “Well then there’s plenty of time to learn all the wonderful things about you. I used to play the acoustic guitar- although I stopped a year ago or so before coming to Oakhurst for.. other reasons. I probably wouldn’t have been able to bring it with anyway.” They smiled. “I’d love to hear you play if you ever pick it up again.”
They purred, looping an arm lazily around him. “Maybe we could do a duet if I can scrounge one up.” They looked down at him with a feigned yawn. “All this excitement has me exhausted- maybe we head home for tonight.”
{ He hums, purring at the idea of a duet, though he hisses when they pitch heading home. It’s not that he hates the idea, he just- }
‘’ Noo, I wanna stay with you! I wanna stay outside! I’m tired of being locked away and only being out when someone decides I’m worth the trouble to use . . . ‘’
They flinched a little at the hiss but are more preoccupied with Allen’s words. “What? Allen- you’re your own person- you’re in charge of what you do and where you go. And I will murder anyone who says otherwise.” They pulled him further into them, fronting slightly.
{ He sighs, staring at the floor and all the dirt and dust that it’s begun to house }
‘’ I’m not though . . . not tonight, not for most of my life, not now. Even when I think I’m free, I’m someone’s secret weapon. I’m the king’s, I’m the clockmaker’s- and spirits know I was Adelaide’s for . . . I’m glad she’s gone. She deserved all she got tonight. ‘’
Their gaze hardened with anger. Not at Allen- at everyone who had made him feel this way. They grasped Allen’s face in their hands. “Look at me. You can stop being the king’s pawn. We could run away right now- somewhere they won’t find us. You deserve to have a peaceful life.” They left out the bit about the clockmakers. They didn’t quite understand it- no matter how much he explained it. Perhaps it was just out of their control to grasp.
{ He stares at them, opening his mouth to speak but ends up closing it again. Eventually, he forces his gaze away from their own, though he doesn’t pry off their hands }
‘’ . . . I can’t. I have to save others before they end up like me. Broken. ‘’
They gave a sad smile. “Being broken is okay.” They didn’t deny it. “We’ll be broken together- two halves make a whole right?” They ran a thumb over his cheek. “If.. if that’s what you want, then we’ll do it together. Like in a movie- Allen and Onyx- saving the world.” They chuckled, trying to bring up his mood.
They squeezed his hand. “It’s alright- we’re in it together right?” They chuckled. “The world really better look out for us if we’re banding together- we might be too powerful.”
They cursed goodheartedly under their breath. “Saints save me” They rolled their eyes at Allen. “I suppose I must- if you keep saving my butt like this.”
{ He hums, fixating again on the hourglass, but not on the sand; on the emptiness left behind it }
‘’ It’s an hourglass. A family heirloom of sorts, it helps to manage the powers of a Clockmaker, which is considerably helpful for me seeing as I have no one to teach me how to use said powers thanks to my entire family being massacred . . . ‘’
{ The more he rants, the more his speech seems to slur, but some things can still be made out }
They frowned slightly. “That’s… sort of cool? It’s like a guide?” They chuckled. “Wish I had something like that when I first got turned.” They didn’t quite catch the last bit of the sentence, thoughts a bit scrambled.
{ He taps the glass, body tensing at remembering the elder vampire. He really did hate him, sometimes, no matter how much he tried to set that aside for a clearer perspective }
‘’ Well . . . I mean, c’mon, you saw how he treated Pyro! What he did to Apo, and how dependent he made Shelby, Drift and Avid. He started his own little . . . cult! And he pretends like he’s helping, but he’s not. And- . . . I guess I hate that I see some of myself in him. ‘’
Their hands fidgeted in their lap. “I don’t deny he was horrible- and you are nothing like him. But- Scott’s not my sire” They tilted their head, gaze flicking back to the little hourglass.
They groaned. “But I dont want it to be that way! Maybe try explaining it to me?” They were frustrated that they couldn’t help Allen with whatever was bothering him.
{ He sighs, rolling his eyes as he moves to sit up, gently cupping their face and giving him a long kiss. When he pulls away, he’s smirking as he boops their nose }
They blushed a little, leaning over and kissing him on the nose. “That’s because you don’t need protecting- you’re awesome already.” They wished that they could protect him- he did so much for them and all they could do was get into more trouble after he was already stressed. God they were useless sometimes.
It will be quick, and then they can have a good time. That’s what Allen keeps telling himself as he waits just outside the castle. He wouldn’t say it, and you can never really tell, but he’s scared. Terrified, actually. And for good reason. The last time he was given a mission like this, he almost met the same fate as his family. Of course, he was inexperienced and insecure back then. Today he’s prepared. Today, there’s something worth fighting to return to.
—
@onyx-of-oakhurst + anyone else who feels like joining! the setting is a gala (see prev rp starter)
“Hello love” They purred, walking up besides Allen. “You ready to have some fun with this?” They were attempting to not only ease their own nerves about the banquet-but also their lover’s.
They smiled in return, grasping Allen’s hand and they walking into the grand doors. “I’m sure you’ll be great” They whispered to him as they swept a gaze across the already crowded dance floor.
{ He rolled his eyes, searching for that old, wretched face, and thankfully, it wasn’t long before he found it hidden in conversation with other fanciful folk. He purred, turning to press a quick kiss to Onyx’s cheek }
‘’ I sincerely hope you’re right. I’ll be right back, dear. ‘’
{ And with that, his smile fell and his hand broke away from theirs as he disappeared into the crowd, only being seen as he left to the balcony with his old boss joined by arm. One can only wish him luck that he does not get caught a second time }
They watched as he went, but only for a moment as he was soon lost by the crowd. They resigned themselves to simply swaying to the music played by the band.
{ True to his word, it wasn’t long before he was back down from the balcony, with no one else following behind. Despite seeing Onyx clearly, he headed straight for one of the doors to outside, seemingly to catch a breath. As glad that he is that it’s over with, he can’t help but ache and shake, remembering the way the moon caught him again falling someone for another’s gain }
They glanced over at Allen, happy to see that he was alright. A body swiftly moved in from of their gaze, crow black hair swooping in front of their face.
“May I have this dance?”
Something about the figure seemed familiar- ‘Surely it’s not him?! Maybe he won’t remember me. It was a year ago after all.’
They flicked their gaze to the man’s hand, grasping it nervously. “Of course.”
{ Still outside, he wandered the gardens before spotting a bench and sitting down upon it. With a wary glance around the empty garden, his form shifted, with that familiar, bloodied coral resuming its usually unseen position. He closed his eyes briefly, though what happened should’ve been years for any regular folk. Still, within a few seconds he stood and walked again into the ballroom, grabbing a drink only to be caught by a familiar face }
“Allen! There’s my fiery hand! How has the night treated you so far?”
{ The king’s questioning look at his coral didn’t fly past unnoticed, but he didn’t bring it up, either, instead focusing on the conversation ahead, and how to get out of it }
‘’ Wonderful. Just took a trip up to the balcony and the moon was such a marvelous sight. Oh! And these drinks? Splendid. Thank you for informing me which is which. ‘’
They nervously shuffled along the basics of the dance- some old slow folk song they hardly knew. The taller man seemed confident in his movements, perhaps holding on a little too tightly to the vampire’s hands.
“Now what’s a lovely young person like you doing all alone at such a large party like this?”
They swallowed, avoiding eye contact with the man. “Oh, you know how it goes-just out for a friendly bit of dancing and maybe some drinks.” They thought maybe it wouldn’t be wise to mention Allen to the man.
{ The king smiled, nodding to acknowledge the secret phrase exchanged. Though, his smile dimmed when he recalled how Allen typically is after a job }
“Don’t suppose you’ll be sticking around much longer?”
{ At that, a crooked smile crossed Allen’s face as he pulled a miniature hourglass out of a hidden pocket. He twirled it back and forth, eyes focused on it before they snap up to the crown }
‘’ Ohhh noooo, I think I’ll be around a moment longer. Can’t let the night go to waste, now, can we? ‘’
{ Before another word can be spoken, the king is pulled off into a conversation with some up-starts while Allen shifts his focus to the search of the ballroom, temptations nagging at the back of his mind }
The song finally came to an end and Onyx was more than happy to step back when the man tightened his grip on their arm.
“Oh, another dance please. I insist.”
They froze, reluctantly following his footsteps to the next song. ‘It’s fear’ they told themselves as they danced ‘surely it’s just fear. That’s normal’ They caught a glimpse of his eyes behind his hair- blood red. ‘It’s him’ the realization dawned on them as they fought to take unneeded breaths.
{ He circled around the dance floor, giving and accepting short dance requests before coming upon Onyx and their odd pair. Though, he walked away quickly enough, only to join the band on stage and switch with the current bass player, who clearly needed a breather. With a charming smile and easy attitude, Allen convinces the band to all take a break, promising that he’ll watch over their instruments while they get a drink. And with that, the music goes on an eerie pause, the only sound being the gentle tapping of sand in his hourglass as it makes contact with the bottom }
They could not have been more grateful for the lull in music as they quickly scrambled backwards from him. “St-stay away from me!” They hissed, trying to disappear into the crowd.
“Oh come on love, I’m not doing any harm. Let’s just put the past in the past Onyx.”
They shook their head frantically. “I said stay away Corvin!” They shrieked, spotting Allen on the stage. ‘Oh thank the saints’ They weaved in between people, heading for the stage as fast as they could- most likely with their former side pursuing.
{ The entire commotion doesn’t fall on empty ears. In fact, Allen’s quick to lay the bass in its case as he heads towards the end of the stage, picking Onyx up and urging them to take his previous seat as he faces the oh-so aggressively average man }
‘’ Do you have a problem, sir? I promise, the band will be making their return very soon. In the meantime, I’m taking requests. Do you have any? ‘’
Onyx sat down heavily, eyes wide and frightened before they watched Allen handle it. Honestly- they should be more concerned for Allen right now but they were too wrapped up in their panic. They heard the conversation between the two.
“No problems here. Just catching up with an old acquaintance. I’ll wait for the band to come back.”
Corvin’s voice was as silky smooth as before- it sent shivers down their spine.
{ He purrs, tilting his head to the side thoughtfully }
‘’ Ohh, but I’m not sure that your ‘old acquaintance’ wants to catch up with you. ‘’
{ He snaps his fingers, as if finally catching an idea }
‘’ Tell you what, how about I tell your fortune for you, huh? I’m quite knowledgeable like that. Let’s see . . . ‘’
{ It’s a hidden movement as he reaches behind for the hourglass, which spins around before shifting into a diamond blade, warped by ocean tides and wrapped in coral. Infused in it is decorative iron used to be reminiscent of the stars, but now, it serves a purpose as Allen points it straight at Corvin’s throat }
‘’ . . . I think that you’ll leave this town for good if you want to keep not only your head, but also those that you need. After all, I’m not above a little massacre, it’s what I do, and I’ve been craving it all night. ‘’
Onyx’s eyes widened as they saw Allen pull the knife before gawking at the out of character response from Corvin.
“Woah now darling, let’s calm down. I’ll just leave and you lot can continue your night in peace.”
Corvin held his hands up warily, taking a half step back, something odd flickering in his eyes. Surely he wasnt scared right? Onyx had lived personally maybe too personally with this man for over a year and never seen him scared. They stood and walked up behind Allen with newfound confidence at his lover’s approach.
Onyx bared their unusually sharp teeth at Corvin. “You heard him.” They snapped, confident at Allen’s side.
They watched as Corvin gave a low growl before sulking off into the crowd. As soon as he disappeared, Onyx let out an unneeded shaky breath. “Thank you.”
{ He nods, twirling the blade back into an hourglass before he grabs their hand and pulls them backstage. Even when they’re hidden by the curtains—out of all prying eyes—he refuses to let go of their hand }
‘’ Are you okay? Holy- Onyx, do I need to go after him? I will! It’s tempting, believe me. I was not joking about all that, I will become the Owen of this town if I must . . . oh, my love . . . ‘’
{ He reaches his other hand to cup their cheek, gently rubbing his thumb across it. All confidence that he portrayed is melted away to reveal something softer; duller despite its broken edges }
Their eyes were slightly frantic as they subconsciously leaned into his hand. “I-uh maybe? I do-don’t know. I’m sorry. I’m really sorry.” They shut their eyes, trying to take stuttering breaths to calm themselves down.
{ He doesn’t wait much of a second, searching their face for any cues before pulling them into a hug. He moves his hands to wrap around them, gently rubbing their back }
‘’ It’s not your fault. There’s no need to be sorry. I’m sorry you have to deal with him. No one deserves that. You’re okay now. You’re safe. Just breathe. ‘’
They nuzzled into the nook of Allen’s shoulder. Their breaths eventually evened out until they stopped entirely. Maybe their body was actually calm now. They pulled back a bit, still staying in Allen’s arms. It was comforting. “Sorry, you shouldn’t have to deal with this too- I know tonight was already stressful for you. I mean- what are the chances he just happens to show up at the same gala and dance with me…”
They smiled at the kiss, nodding slowly. “If you’re sure…” they were a bit uncertain about that. “You’re hot when you’re threatening.” They teased, trying to take their mind off of the fact that Corbin knew more than they were comfortable with about where they were, why they looked like now, and… Allen.
{ He smiles only briefly before their tease registered, and his face grew red in an instant. Immediately he covers his face with his hands, whining at his current circumstances }
‘’ Don’t say that . . . I’m not! There’s nothing hot about that! . . . I don’t need people figuring out a new way to tease me. ‘’
They smiled, flicking his nose with a finger as they lifted one of his hands up. “It is! It’s nice to know someone is there to protect me in such a threatening manner.” They purred at Allen’s red face. oh how the turns have tabled.
{ He only flustered even more, lowering his other hand, though he still doesn’t meet their gaze }
‘’ I hate you . . . ‘’
{ After a second, he kisses them, pulling away with the light dragging of his fangs on their lower lip, hoping despite himself that maybe it’ll stop the teasing for a bit }
They purred, flashing a toothy grin at him. “Sure you do.” They leaned back in again, anxiety temporarily diminished with Allen. They leaned into the kiss before pulling back. “How long is the band away for?”
They shook their head. “I’m fine with it- they might be a little spooked to see two strangers backstage.” They didn’t really want to dance right now- it seemed too recent from earlier. “Maybe we go and get something to drink?”
{ Soon enough, they reach the table, and he lets go of their hand to take one of the bottles and drink . . . but he almost immediately slams the bottle down again, wary of the taste reminding them of that body- . . . is she still up there? Spirits, he really is like Pyro . . . }
They stood at the table, connecting some of the dots between Allen’s reaction and the bits of fired blood speckling his mouth. “Here,” they extended their wrist to him. “It’ll taste different.”
{ His eyes widen at their offering, though it’s not long before he inevitably sinks his teeth into it. Thankfully, it does taste different. In fact, it tastes much better than any others he’s tried in a long time . . . but he has to pull away. Both for his reputation and to keep his lover semiconscious }
They nodded, sitting down to combat the minor dizziness. “Of course love.” They reached out with their other hand, grabbing the bottle and taking a swig. “Send my thanks to the king- this is pretty good.”
{ He nods, licking the remaining blood from his lips as he grabs a chair to sit next to them in. He takes their wrist in his hand, gently rubbing his thumb over the wound before lifting it up to his mouth a pressing a kiss to it before letting it fall to their side again }
The purred at the movement. “Kisses make everything better right?” They chuckled a bit, watching the band come back to the stage. “How did you end up on stage? I didn’t know you played.”
{ He hums, smiling just a smidge as he watches the band pick up their instruments. The bass player waves at him, and he does so as well before turning to face Onyx better }
‘’ There’s a lot of things you don’t know about me, dove. I do know how to play, in fact I’m an expert at double bass, and given a few days, I can typically pick up any instrument. Though . . . ever since Oakhurst I’ve stopped playing. Not for any particularly odd reason, I just haven’t had much time, and that town is very draining to any motivation one may have. ‘’
They watched the band before listening to Allen. “Well then there’s plenty of time to learn all the wonderful things about you. I used to play the acoustic guitar- although I stopped a year ago or so before coming to Oakhurst for.. other reasons. I probably wouldn’t have been able to bring it with anyway.” They smiled. “I’d love to hear you play if you ever pick it up again.”
They purred, looping an arm lazily around him. “Maybe we could do a duet if I can scrounge one up.” They looked down at him with a feigned yawn. “All this excitement has me exhausted- maybe we head home for tonight.”
{ He hums, purring at the idea of a duet, though he hisses when they pitch heading home. It’s not that he hates the idea, he just- }
‘’ Noo, I wanna stay with you! I wanna stay outside! I’m tired of being locked away and only being out when someone decides I’m worth the trouble to use . . . ‘’
They flinched a little at the hiss but are more preoccupied with Allen’s words. “What? Allen- you’re your own person- you’re in charge of what you do and where you go. And I will murder anyone who says otherwise.” They pulled him further into them, fronting slightly.
{ He sighs, staring at the floor and all the dirt and dust that it’s begun to house }
‘’ I’m not though . . . not tonight, not for most of my life, not now. Even when I think I’m free, I’m someone’s secret weapon. I’m the king’s, I’m the clockmaker’s- and spirits know I was Adelaide’s for . . . I’m glad she’s gone. She deserved all she got tonight. ‘’
Their gaze hardened with anger. Not at Allen- at everyone who had made him feel this way. They grasped Allen’s face in their hands. “Look at me. You can stop being the king’s pawn. We could run away right now- somewhere they won’t find us. You deserve to have a peaceful life.” They left out the bit about the clockmakers. They didn’t quite understand it- no matter how much he explained it. Perhaps it was just out of their control to grasp.
{ He stares at them, opening his mouth to speak but ends up closing it again. Eventually, he forces his gaze away from their own, though he doesn’t pry off their hands }
‘’ . . . I can’t. I have to save others before they end up like me. Broken. ‘’
They gave a sad smile. “Being broken is okay.” They didn’t deny it. “We’ll be broken together- two halves make a whole right?” They ran a thumb over his cheek. “If.. if that’s what you want, then we’ll do it together. Like in a movie- Allen and Onyx- saving the world.” They chuckled, trying to bring up his mood.
They squeezed his hand. “It’s alright- we’re in it together right?” They chuckled. “The world really better look out for us if we’re banding together- we might be too powerful.”
They cursed goodheartedly under their breath. “Saints save me” They rolled their eyes at Allen. “I suppose I must- if you keep saving my butt like this.”
{ He hums, fixating again on the hourglass, but not on the sand; on the emptiness left behind it }
‘’ It’s an hourglass. A family heirloom of sorts, it helps to manage the powers of a Clockmaker, which is considerably helpful for me seeing as I have no one to teach me how to use said powers thanks to my entire family being massacred . . . ‘’
{ The more he rants, the more his speech seems to slur, but some things can still be made out }
They frowned slightly. “That’s… sort of cool? It’s like a guide?” They chuckled. “Wish I had something like that when I first got turned.” They didn’t quite catch the last bit of the sentence, thoughts a bit scrambled.
{ He taps the glass, body tensing at remembering the elder vampire. He really did hate him, sometimes, no matter how much he tried to set that aside for a clearer perspective }
‘’ Well . . . I mean, c’mon, you saw how he treated Pyro! What he did to Apo, and how dependent he made Shelby, Drift and Avid. He started his own little . . . cult! And he pretends like he’s helping, but he’s not. And- . . . I guess I hate that I see some of myself in him. ‘’
Their hands fidgeted in their lap. “I don’t deny he was horrible- and you are nothing like him. But- Scott’s not my sire” They tilted their head, gaze flicking back to the little hourglass.
They groaned. “But I dont want it to be that way! Maybe try explaining it to me?” They were frustrated that they couldn’t help Allen with whatever was bothering him.
{ He sighs, rolling his eyes as he moves to sit up, gently cupping their face and giving him a long kiss. When he pulls away, he’s smirking as he boops their nose }
They blushed a little, leaning over and kissing him on the nose. “That’s because you don’t need protecting- you’re awesome already.” They wished that they could protect him- he did so much for them and all they could do was get into more trouble after he was already stressed. God they were useless sometimes.
It will be quick, and then they can have a good time. That’s what Allen keeps telling himself as he waits just outside the castle. He wouldn’t say it, and you can never really tell, but he’s scared. Terrified, actually. And for good reason. The last time he was given a mission like this, he almost met the same fate as his family. Of course, he was inexperienced and insecure back then. Today he’s prepared. Today, there’s something worth fighting to return to.
—
@onyx-of-oakhurst + anyone else who feels like joining! the setting is a gala (see prev rp starter)
“Hello love” They purred, walking up besides Allen. “You ready to have some fun with this?” They were attempting to not only ease their own nerves about the banquet-but also their lover’s.
They smiled in return, grasping Allen’s hand and they walking into the grand doors. “I’m sure you’ll be great” They whispered to him as they swept a gaze across the already crowded dance floor.
{ He rolled his eyes, searching for that old, wretched face, and thankfully, it wasn’t long before he found it hidden in conversation with other fanciful folk. He purred, turning to press a quick kiss to Onyx’s cheek }
‘’ I sincerely hope you’re right. I’ll be right back, dear. ‘’
{ And with that, his smile fell and his hand broke away from theirs as he disappeared into the crowd, only being seen as he left to the balcony with his old boss joined by arm. One can only wish him luck that he does not get caught a second time }
They watched as he went, but only for a moment as he was soon lost by the crowd. They resigned themselves to simply swaying to the music played by the band.
{ True to his word, it wasn’t long before he was back down from the balcony, with no one else following behind. Despite seeing Onyx clearly, he headed straight for one of the doors to outside, seemingly to catch a breath. As glad that he is that it’s over with, he can’t help but ache and shake, remembering the way the moon caught him again falling someone for another’s gain }
They glanced over at Allen, happy to see that he was alright. A body swiftly moved in from of their gaze, crow black hair swooping in front of their face.
“May I have this dance?”
Something about the figure seemed familiar- ‘Surely it’s not him?! Maybe he won’t remember me. It was a year ago after all.’
They flicked their gaze to the man’s hand, grasping it nervously. “Of course.”
{ Still outside, he wandered the gardens before spotting a bench and sitting down upon it. With a wary glance around the empty garden, his form shifted, with that familiar, bloodied coral resuming its usually unseen position. He closed his eyes briefly, though what happened should’ve been years for any regular folk. Still, within a few seconds he stood and walked again into the ballroom, grabbing a drink only to be caught by a familiar face }
“Allen! There’s my fiery hand! How has the night treated you so far?”
{ The king’s questioning look at his coral didn’t fly past unnoticed, but he didn’t bring it up, either, instead focusing on the conversation ahead, and how to get out of it }
‘’ Wonderful. Just took a trip up to the balcony and the moon was such a marvelous sight. Oh! And these drinks? Splendid. Thank you for informing me which is which. ‘’
They nervously shuffled along the basics of the dance- some old slow folk song they hardly knew. The taller man seemed confident in his movements, perhaps holding on a little too tightly to the vampire’s hands.
“Now what’s a lovely young person like you doing all alone at such a large party like this?”
They swallowed, avoiding eye contact with the man. “Oh, you know how it goes-just out for a friendly bit of dancing and maybe some drinks.” They thought maybe it wouldn’t be wise to mention Allen to the man.
{ The king smiled, nodding to acknowledge the secret phrase exchanged. Though, his smile dimmed when he recalled how Allen typically is after a job }
“Don’t suppose you’ll be sticking around much longer?”
{ At that, a crooked smile crossed Allen’s face as he pulled a miniature hourglass out of a hidden pocket. He twirled it back and forth, eyes focused on it before they snap up to the crown }
‘’ Ohhh noooo, I think I’ll be around a moment longer. Can’t let the night go to waste, now, can we? ‘’
{ Before another word can be spoken, the king is pulled off into a conversation with some up-starts while Allen shifts his focus to the search of the ballroom, temptations nagging at the back of his mind }
The song finally came to an end and Onyx was more than happy to step back when the man tightened his grip on their arm.
“Oh, another dance please. I insist.”
They froze, reluctantly following his footsteps to the next song. ‘It’s fear’ they told themselves as they danced ‘surely it’s just fear. That’s normal’ They caught a glimpse of his eyes behind his hair- blood red. ‘It’s him’ the realization dawned on them as they fought to take unneeded breaths.
{ He circled around the dance floor, giving and accepting short dance requests before coming upon Onyx and their odd pair. Though, he walked away quickly enough, only to join the band on stage and switch with the current bass player, who clearly needed a breather. With a charming smile and easy attitude, Allen convinces the band to all take a break, promising that he’ll watch over their instruments while they get a drink. And with that, the music goes on an eerie pause, the only sound being the gentle tapping of sand in his hourglass as it makes contact with the bottom }
They could not have been more grateful for the lull in music as they quickly scrambled backwards from him. “St-stay away from me!” They hissed, trying to disappear into the crowd.
“Oh come on love, I’m not doing any harm. Let’s just put the past in the past Onyx.”
They shook their head frantically. “I said stay away Corvin!” They shrieked, spotting Allen on the stage. ‘Oh thank the saints’ They weaved in between people, heading for the stage as fast as they could- most likely with their former side pursuing.
{ The entire commotion doesn’t fall on empty ears. In fact, Allen’s quick to lay the bass in its case as he heads towards the end of the stage, picking Onyx up and urging them to take his previous seat as he faces the oh-so aggressively average man }
‘’ Do you have a problem, sir? I promise, the band will be making their return very soon. In the meantime, I’m taking requests. Do you have any? ‘’
Onyx sat down heavily, eyes wide and frightened before they watched Allen handle it. Honestly- they should be more concerned for Allen right now but they were too wrapped up in their panic. They heard the conversation between the two.
“No problems here. Just catching up with an old acquaintance. I’ll wait for the band to come back.”
Corvin’s voice was as silky smooth as before- it sent shivers down their spine.
{ He purrs, tilting his head to the side thoughtfully }
‘’ Ohh, but I’m not sure that your ‘old acquaintance’ wants to catch up with you. ‘’
{ He snaps his fingers, as if finally catching an idea }
‘’ Tell you what, how about I tell your fortune for you, huh? I’m quite knowledgeable like that. Let’s see . . . ‘’
{ It’s a hidden movement as he reaches behind for the hourglass, which spins around before shifting into a diamond blade, warped by ocean tides and wrapped in coral. Infused in it is decorative iron used to be reminiscent of the stars, but now, it serves a purpose as Allen points it straight at Corvin’s throat }
‘’ . . . I think that you’ll leave this town for good if you want to keep not only your head, but also those that you need. After all, I’m not above a little massacre, it’s what I do, and I’ve been craving it all night. ‘’
Onyx’s eyes widened as they saw Allen pull the knife before gawking at the out of character response from Corvin.
“Woah now darling, let’s calm down. I’ll just leave and you lot can continue your night in peace.”
Corvin held his hands up warily, taking a half step back, something odd flickering in his eyes. Surely he wasnt scared right? Onyx had lived personally maybe too personally with this man for over a year and never seen him scared. They stood and walked up behind Allen with newfound confidence at his lover’s approach.
Onyx bared their unusually sharp teeth at Corvin. “You heard him.” They snapped, confident at Allen’s side.
They watched as Corvin gave a low growl before sulking off into the crowd. As soon as he disappeared, Onyx let out an unneeded shaky breath. “Thank you.”
{ He nods, twirling the blade back into an hourglass before he grabs their hand and pulls them backstage. Even when they’re hidden by the curtains—out of all prying eyes—he refuses to let go of their hand }
‘’ Are you okay? Holy- Onyx, do I need to go after him? I will! It’s tempting, believe me. I was not joking about all that, I will become the Owen of this town if I must . . . oh, my love . . . ‘’
{ He reaches his other hand to cup their cheek, gently rubbing his thumb across it. All confidence that he portrayed is melted away to reveal something softer; duller despite its broken edges }
Their eyes were slightly frantic as they subconsciously leaned into his hand. “I-uh maybe? I do-don’t know. I’m sorry. I’m really sorry.” They shut their eyes, trying to take stuttering breaths to calm themselves down.
{ He doesn’t wait much of a second, searching their face for any cues before pulling them into a hug. He moves his hands to wrap around them, gently rubbing their back }
‘’ It’s not your fault. There’s no need to be sorry. I’m sorry you have to deal with him. No one deserves that. You’re okay now. You’re safe. Just breathe. ‘’
They nuzzled into the nook of Allen’s shoulder. Their breaths eventually evened out until they stopped entirely. Maybe their body was actually calm now. They pulled back a bit, still staying in Allen’s arms. It was comforting. “Sorry, you shouldn’t have to deal with this too- I know tonight was already stressful for you. I mean- what are the chances he just happens to show up at the same gala and dance with me…”
They smiled at the kiss, nodding slowly. “If you’re sure…” they were a bit uncertain about that. “You’re hot when you’re threatening.” They teased, trying to take their mind off of the fact that Corbin knew more than they were comfortable with about where they were, why they looked like now, and… Allen.
{ He smiles only briefly before their tease registered, and his face grew red in an instant. Immediately he covers his face with his hands, whining at his current circumstances }
‘’ Don’t say that . . . I’m not! There’s nothing hot about that! . . . I don’t need people figuring out a new way to tease me. ‘’
They smiled, flicking his nose with a finger as they lifted one of his hands up. “It is! It’s nice to know someone is there to protect me in such a threatening manner.” They purred at Allen’s red face. oh how the turns have tabled.
{ He only flustered even more, lowering his other hand, though he still doesn’t meet their gaze }
‘’ I hate you . . . ‘’
{ After a second, he kisses them, pulling away with the light dragging of his fangs on their lower lip, hoping despite himself that maybe it’ll stop the teasing for a bit }
They purred, flashing a toothy grin at him. “Sure you do.” They leaned back in again, anxiety temporarily diminished with Allen. They leaned into the kiss before pulling back. “How long is the band away for?”
They shook their head. “I’m fine with it- they might be a little spooked to see two strangers backstage.” They didn’t really want to dance right now- it seemed too recent from earlier. “Maybe we go and get something to drink?”
{ Soon enough, they reach the table, and he lets go of their hand to take one of the bottles and drink . . . but he almost immediately slams the bottle down again, wary of the taste reminding them of that body- . . . is she still up there? Spirits, he really is like Pyro . . . }
They stood at the table, connecting some of the dots between Allen’s reaction and the bits of fired blood speckling his mouth. “Here,” they extended their wrist to him. “It’ll taste different.”
{ His eyes widen at their offering, though it’s not long before he inevitably sinks his teeth into it. Thankfully, it does taste different. In fact, it tastes much better than any others he’s tried in a long time . . . but he has to pull away. Both for his reputation and to keep his lover semiconscious }
They nodded, sitting down to combat the minor dizziness. “Of course love.” They reached out with their other hand, grabbing the bottle and taking a swig. “Send my thanks to the king- this is pretty good.”
{ He nods, licking the remaining blood from his lips as he grabs a chair to sit next to them in. He takes their wrist in his hand, gently rubbing his thumb over the wound before lifting it up to his mouth a pressing a kiss to it before letting it fall to their side again }
The purred at the movement. “Kisses make everything better right?” They chuckled a bit, watching the band come back to the stage. “How did you end up on stage? I didn’t know you played.”
{ He hums, smiling just a smidge as he watches the band pick up their instruments. The bass player waves at him, and he does so as well before turning to face Onyx better }
‘’ There’s a lot of things you don’t know about me, dove. I do know how to play, in fact I’m an expert at double bass, and given a few days, I can typically pick up any instrument. Though . . . ever since Oakhurst I’ve stopped playing. Not for any particularly odd reason, I just haven’t had much time, and that town is very draining to any motivation one may have. ‘’
They watched the band before listening to Allen. “Well then there’s plenty of time to learn all the wonderful things about you. I used to play the acoustic guitar- although I stopped a year ago or so before coming to Oakhurst for.. other reasons. I probably wouldn’t have been able to bring it with anyway.” They smiled. “I’d love to hear you play if you ever pick it up again.”
They purred, looping an arm lazily around him. “Maybe we could do a duet if I can scrounge one up.” They looked down at him with a feigned yawn. “All this excitement has me exhausted- maybe we head home for tonight.”
{ He hums, purring at the idea of a duet, though he hisses when they pitch heading home. It’s not that he hates the idea, he just- }
‘’ Noo, I wanna stay with you! I wanna stay outside! I’m tired of being locked away and only being out when someone decides I’m worth the trouble to use . . . ‘’
They flinched a little at the hiss but are more preoccupied with Allen’s words. “What? Allen- you’re your own person- you’re in charge of what you do and where you go. And I will murder anyone who says otherwise.” They pulled him further into them, fronting slightly.
{ He sighs, staring at the floor and all the dirt and dust that it’s begun to house }
‘’ I’m not though . . . not tonight, not for most of my life, not now. Even when I think I’m free, I’m someone’s secret weapon. I’m the king’s, I’m the clockmaker’s- and spirits know I was Adelaide’s for . . . I’m glad she’s gone. She deserved all she got tonight. ‘’
Their gaze hardened with anger. Not at Allen- at everyone who had made him feel this way. They grasped Allen’s face in their hands. “Look at me. You can stop being the king’s pawn. We could run away right now- somewhere they won’t find us. You deserve to have a peaceful life.” They left out the bit about the clockmakers. They didn’t quite understand it- no matter how much he explained it. Perhaps it was just out of their control to grasp.
{ He stares at them, opening his mouth to speak but ends up closing it again. Eventually, he forces his gaze away from their own, though he doesn’t pry off their hands }
‘’ . . . I can’t. I have to save others before they end up like me. Broken. ‘’
They gave a sad smile. “Being broken is okay.” They didn’t deny it. “We’ll be broken together- two halves make a whole right?” They ran a thumb over his cheek. “If.. if that’s what you want, then we’ll do it together. Like in a movie- Allen and Onyx- saving the world.” They chuckled, trying to bring up his mood.
They squeezed his hand. “It’s alright- we’re in it together right?” They chuckled. “The world really better look out for us if we’re banding together- we might be too powerful.”
They cursed goodheartedly under their breath. “Saints save me” They rolled their eyes at Allen. “I suppose I must- if you keep saving my butt like this.”
{ He hums, fixating again on the hourglass, but not on the sand; on the emptiness left behind it }
‘’ It’s an hourglass. A family heirloom of sorts, it helps to manage the powers of a Clockmaker, which is considerably helpful for me seeing as I have no one to teach me how to use said powers thanks to my entire family being massacred . . . ‘’
{ The more he rants, the more his speech seems to slur, but some things can still be made out }
They frowned slightly. “That’s… sort of cool? It’s like a guide?” They chuckled. “Wish I had something like that when I first got turned.” They didn’t quite catch the last bit of the sentence, thoughts a bit scrambled.
{ He taps the glass, body tensing at remembering the elder vampire. He really did hate him, sometimes, no matter how much he tried to set that aside for a clearer perspective }
‘’ Well . . . I mean, c’mon, you saw how he treated Pyro! What he did to Apo, and how dependent he made Shelby, Drift and Avid. He started his own little . . . cult! And he pretends like he’s helping, but he’s not. And- . . . I guess I hate that I see some of myself in him. ‘’
Their hands fidgeted in their lap. “I don’t deny he was horrible- and you are nothing like him. But- Scott’s not my sire” They tilted their head, gaze flicking back to the little hourglass.
They groaned. “But I dont want it to be that way! Maybe try explaining it to me?” They were frustrated that they couldn’t help Allen with whatever was bothering him.
{ He sighs, rolling his eyes as he moves to sit up, gently cupping their face and giving him a long kiss. When he pulls away, he’s smirking as he boops their nose }
They blushed a little, leaning over and kissing him on the nose. “That’s because you don’t need protecting- you’re awesome already.” They wished that they could protect him- he did so much for them and all they could do was get into more trouble after he was already stressed. God they were useless sometimes.
It will be quick, and then they can have a good time. That’s what Allen keeps telling himself as he waits just outside the castle. He wouldn’t say it, and you can never really tell, but he’s scared. Terrified, actually. And for good reason. The last time he was given a mission like this, he almost met the same fate as his family. Of course, he was inexperienced and insecure back then. Today he’s prepared. Today, there’s something worth fighting to return to.
—
@onyx-of-oakhurst + anyone else who feels like joining! the setting is a gala (see prev rp starter)
“Hello love” They purred, walking up besides Allen. “You ready to have some fun with this?” They were attempting to not only ease their own nerves about the banquet-but also their lover’s.
They smiled in return, grasping Allen’s hand and they walking into the grand doors. “I’m sure you’ll be great” They whispered to him as they swept a gaze across the already crowded dance floor.
{ He rolled his eyes, searching for that old, wretched face, and thankfully, it wasn’t long before he found it hidden in conversation with other fanciful folk. He purred, turning to press a quick kiss to Onyx’s cheek }
‘’ I sincerely hope you’re right. I’ll be right back, dear. ‘’
{ And with that, his smile fell and his hand broke away from theirs as he disappeared into the crowd, only being seen as he left to the balcony with his old boss joined by arm. One can only wish him luck that he does not get caught a second time }
They watched as he went, but only for a moment as he was soon lost by the crowd. They resigned themselves to simply swaying to the music played by the band.
{ True to his word, it wasn’t long before he was back down from the balcony, with no one else following behind. Despite seeing Onyx clearly, he headed straight for one of the doors to outside, seemingly to catch a breath. As glad that he is that it’s over with, he can’t help but ache and shake, remembering the way the moon caught him again falling someone for another’s gain }
They glanced over at Allen, happy to see that he was alright. A body swiftly moved in from of their gaze, crow black hair swooping in front of their face.
“May I have this dance?”
Something about the figure seemed familiar- ‘Surely it’s not him?! Maybe he won’t remember me. It was a year ago after all.’
They flicked their gaze to the man’s hand, grasping it nervously. “Of course.”
{ Still outside, he wandered the gardens before spotting a bench and sitting down upon it. With a wary glance around the empty garden, his form shifted, with that familiar, bloodied coral resuming its usually unseen position. He closed his eyes briefly, though what happened should’ve been years for any regular folk. Still, within a few seconds he stood and walked again into the ballroom, grabbing a drink only to be caught by a familiar face }
“Allen! There’s my fiery hand! How has the night treated you so far?”
{ The king’s questioning look at his coral didn’t fly past unnoticed, but he didn’t bring it up, either, instead focusing on the conversation ahead, and how to get out of it }
‘’ Wonderful. Just took a trip up to the balcony and the moon was such a marvelous sight. Oh! And these drinks? Splendid. Thank you for informing me which is which. ‘’
They nervously shuffled along the basics of the dance- some old slow folk song they hardly knew. The taller man seemed confident in his movements, perhaps holding on a little too tightly to the vampire’s hands.
“Now what’s a lovely young person like you doing all alone at such a large party like this?”
They swallowed, avoiding eye contact with the man. “Oh, you know how it goes-just out for a friendly bit of dancing and maybe some drinks.” They thought maybe it wouldn’t be wise to mention Allen to the man.
{ The king smiled, nodding to acknowledge the secret phrase exchanged. Though, his smile dimmed when he recalled how Allen typically is after a job }
“Don’t suppose you’ll be sticking around much longer?”
{ At that, a crooked smile crossed Allen’s face as he pulled a miniature hourglass out of a hidden pocket. He twirled it back and forth, eyes focused on it before they snap up to the crown }
‘’ Ohhh noooo, I think I’ll be around a moment longer. Can’t let the night go to waste, now, can we? ‘’
{ Before another word can be spoken, the king is pulled off into a conversation with some up-starts while Allen shifts his focus to the search of the ballroom, temptations nagging at the back of his mind }
The song finally came to an end and Onyx was more than happy to step back when the man tightened his grip on their arm.
“Oh, another dance please. I insist.”
They froze, reluctantly following his footsteps to the next song. ‘It’s fear’ they told themselves as they danced ‘surely it’s just fear. That’s normal’ They caught a glimpse of his eyes behind his hair- blood red. ‘It’s him’ the realization dawned on them as they fought to take unneeded breaths.
{ He circled around the dance floor, giving and accepting short dance requests before coming upon Onyx and their odd pair. Though, he walked away quickly enough, only to join the band on stage and switch with the current bass player, who clearly needed a breather. With a charming smile and easy attitude, Allen convinces the band to all take a break, promising that he’ll watch over their instruments while they get a drink. And with that, the music goes on an eerie pause, the only sound being the gentle tapping of sand in his hourglass as it makes contact with the bottom }
They could not have been more grateful for the lull in music as they quickly scrambled backwards from him. “St-stay away from me!” They hissed, trying to disappear into the crowd.
“Oh come on love, I’m not doing any harm. Let’s just put the past in the past Onyx.”
They shook their head frantically. “I said stay away Corvin!” They shrieked, spotting Allen on the stage. ‘Oh thank the saints’ They weaved in between people, heading for the stage as fast as they could- most likely with their former side pursuing.
{ The entire commotion doesn’t fall on empty ears. In fact, Allen’s quick to lay the bass in its case as he heads towards the end of the stage, picking Onyx up and urging them to take his previous seat as he faces the oh-so aggressively average man }
‘’ Do you have a problem, sir? I promise, the band will be making their return very soon. In the meantime, I’m taking requests. Do you have any? ‘’
Onyx sat down heavily, eyes wide and frightened before they watched Allen handle it. Honestly- they should be more concerned for Allen right now but they were too wrapped up in their panic. They heard the conversation between the two.
“No problems here. Just catching up with an old acquaintance. I’ll wait for the band to come back.”
Corvin’s voice was as silky smooth as before- it sent shivers down their spine.
{ He purrs, tilting his head to the side thoughtfully }
‘’ Ohh, but I’m not sure that your ‘old acquaintance’ wants to catch up with you. ‘’
{ He snaps his fingers, as if finally catching an idea }
‘’ Tell you what, how about I tell your fortune for you, huh? I’m quite knowledgeable like that. Let’s see . . . ‘’
{ It’s a hidden movement as he reaches behind for the hourglass, which spins around before shifting into a diamond blade, warped by ocean tides and wrapped in coral. Infused in it is decorative iron used to be reminiscent of the stars, but now, it serves a purpose as Allen points it straight at Corvin’s throat }
‘’ . . . I think that you’ll leave this town for good if you want to keep not only your head, but also those that you need. After all, I’m not above a little massacre, it’s what I do, and I’ve been craving it all night. ‘’
Onyx’s eyes widened as they saw Allen pull the knife before gawking at the out of character response from Corvin.
“Woah now darling, let’s calm down. I’ll just leave and you lot can continue your night in peace.”
Corvin held his hands up warily, taking a half step back, something odd flickering in his eyes. Surely he wasnt scared right? Onyx had lived personally maybe too personally with this man for over a year and never seen him scared. They stood and walked up behind Allen with newfound confidence at his lover’s approach.
Onyx bared their unusually sharp teeth at Corvin. “You heard him.” They snapped, confident at Allen’s side.
They watched as Corvin gave a low growl before sulking off into the crowd. As soon as he disappeared, Onyx let out an unneeded shaky breath. “Thank you.”
{ He nods, twirling the blade back into an hourglass before he grabs their hand and pulls them backstage. Even when they’re hidden by the curtains—out of all prying eyes—he refuses to let go of their hand }
‘’ Are you okay? Holy- Onyx, do I need to go after him? I will! It’s tempting, believe me. I was not joking about all that, I will become the Owen of this town if I must . . . oh, my love . . . ‘’
{ He reaches his other hand to cup their cheek, gently rubbing his thumb across it. All confidence that he portrayed is melted away to reveal something softer; duller despite its broken edges }
Their eyes were slightly frantic as they subconsciously leaned into his hand. “I-uh maybe? I do-don’t know. I’m sorry. I’m really sorry.” They shut their eyes, trying to take stuttering breaths to calm themselves down.
{ He doesn’t wait much of a second, searching their face for any cues before pulling them into a hug. He moves his hands to wrap around them, gently rubbing their back }
‘’ It’s not your fault. There’s no need to be sorry. I’m sorry you have to deal with him. No one deserves that. You’re okay now. You’re safe. Just breathe. ‘’
They nuzzled into the nook of Allen’s shoulder. Their breaths eventually evened out until they stopped entirely. Maybe their body was actually calm now. They pulled back a bit, still staying in Allen’s arms. It was comforting. “Sorry, you shouldn’t have to deal with this too- I know tonight was already stressful for you. I mean- what are the chances he just happens to show up at the same gala and dance with me…”
They smiled at the kiss, nodding slowly. “If you’re sure…” they were a bit uncertain about that. “You’re hot when you’re threatening.” They teased, trying to take their mind off of the fact that Corbin knew more than they were comfortable with about where they were, why they looked like now, and… Allen.
{ He smiles only briefly before their tease registered, and his face grew red in an instant. Immediately he covers his face with his hands, whining at his current circumstances }
‘’ Don’t say that . . . I’m not! There’s nothing hot about that! . . . I don’t need people figuring out a new way to tease me. ‘’
They smiled, flicking his nose with a finger as they lifted one of his hands up. “It is! It’s nice to know someone is there to protect me in such a threatening manner.” They purred at Allen’s red face. oh how the turns have tabled.
{ He only flustered even more, lowering his other hand, though he still doesn’t meet their gaze }
‘’ I hate you . . . ‘’
{ After a second, he kisses them, pulling away with the light dragging of his fangs on their lower lip, hoping despite himself that maybe it’ll stop the teasing for a bit }
They purred, flashing a toothy grin at him. “Sure you do.” They leaned back in again, anxiety temporarily diminished with Allen. They leaned into the kiss before pulling back. “How long is the band away for?”
They shook their head. “I’m fine with it- they might be a little spooked to see two strangers backstage.” They didn’t really want to dance right now- it seemed too recent from earlier. “Maybe we go and get something to drink?”
{ Soon enough, they reach the table, and he lets go of their hand to take one of the bottles and drink . . . but he almost immediately slams the bottle down again, wary of the taste reminding them of that body- . . . is she still up there? Spirits, he really is like Pyro . . . }
They stood at the table, connecting some of the dots between Allen’s reaction and the bits of fired blood speckling his mouth. “Here,” they extended their wrist to him. “It’ll taste different.”
{ His eyes widen at their offering, though it’s not long before he inevitably sinks his teeth into it. Thankfully, it does taste different. In fact, it tastes much better than any others he’s tried in a long time . . . but he has to pull away. Both for his reputation and to keep his lover semiconscious }
They nodded, sitting down to combat the minor dizziness. “Of course love.” They reached out with their other hand, grabbing the bottle and taking a swig. “Send my thanks to the king- this is pretty good.”
{ He nods, licking the remaining blood from his lips as he grabs a chair to sit next to them in. He takes their wrist in his hand, gently rubbing his thumb over the wound before lifting it up to his mouth a pressing a kiss to it before letting it fall to their side again }
The purred at the movement. “Kisses make everything better right?” They chuckled a bit, watching the band come back to the stage. “How did you end up on stage? I didn’t know you played.”
{ He hums, smiling just a smidge as he watches the band pick up their instruments. The bass player waves at him, and he does so as well before turning to face Onyx better }
‘’ There’s a lot of things you don’t know about me, dove. I do know how to play, in fact I’m an expert at double bass, and given a few days, I can typically pick up any instrument. Though . . . ever since Oakhurst I’ve stopped playing. Not for any particularly odd reason, I just haven’t had much time, and that town is very draining to any motivation one may have. ‘’
They watched the band before listening to Allen. “Well then there’s plenty of time to learn all the wonderful things about you. I used to play the acoustic guitar- although I stopped a year ago or so before coming to Oakhurst for.. other reasons. I probably wouldn’t have been able to bring it with anyway.” They smiled. “I’d love to hear you play if you ever pick it up again.”
They purred, looping an arm lazily around him. “Maybe we could do a duet if I can scrounge one up.” They looked down at him with a feigned yawn. “All this excitement has me exhausted- maybe we head home for tonight.”
{ He hums, purring at the idea of a duet, though he hisses when they pitch heading home. It’s not that he hates the idea, he just- }
‘’ Noo, I wanna stay with you! I wanna stay outside! I’m tired of being locked away and only being out when someone decides I’m worth the trouble to use . . . ‘’
They flinched a little at the hiss but are more preoccupied with Allen’s words. “What? Allen- you’re your own person- you’re in charge of what you do and where you go. And I will murder anyone who says otherwise.” They pulled him further into them, fronting slightly.
{ He sighs, staring at the floor and all the dirt and dust that it’s begun to house }
‘’ I’m not though . . . not tonight, not for most of my life, not now. Even when I think I’m free, I’m someone’s secret weapon. I’m the king’s, I’m the clockmaker’s- and spirits know I was Adelaide’s for . . . I’m glad she’s gone. She deserved all she got tonight. ‘’
Their gaze hardened with anger. Not at Allen- at everyone who had made him feel this way. They grasped Allen’s face in their hands. “Look at me. You can stop being the king’s pawn. We could run away right now- somewhere they won’t find us. You deserve to have a peaceful life.” They left out the bit about the clockmakers. They didn’t quite understand it- no matter how much he explained it. Perhaps it was just out of their control to grasp.
{ He stares at them, opening his mouth to speak but ends up closing it again. Eventually, he forces his gaze away from their own, though he doesn’t pry off their hands }
‘’ . . . I can’t. I have to save others before they end up like me. Broken. ‘’
They gave a sad smile. “Being broken is okay.” They didn’t deny it. “We’ll be broken together- two halves make a whole right?” They ran a thumb over his cheek. “If.. if that’s what you want, then we’ll do it together. Like in a movie- Allen and Onyx- saving the world.” They chuckled, trying to bring up his mood.
They squeezed his hand. “It’s alright- we’re in it together right?” They chuckled. “The world really better look out for us if we’re banding together- we might be too powerful.”
They cursed goodheartedly under their breath. “Saints save me” They rolled their eyes at Allen. “I suppose I must- if you keep saving my butt like this.”
{ He hums, fixating again on the hourglass, but not on the sand; on the emptiness left behind it }
‘’ It’s an hourglass. A family heirloom of sorts, it helps to manage the powers of a Clockmaker, which is considerably helpful for me seeing as I have no one to teach me how to use said powers thanks to my entire family being massacred . . . ‘’
{ The more he rants, the more his speech seems to slur, but some things can still be made out }
They frowned slightly. “That’s… sort of cool? It’s like a guide?” They chuckled. “Wish I had something like that when I first got turned.” They didn’t quite catch the last bit of the sentence, thoughts a bit scrambled.
{ He taps the glass, body tensing at remembering the elder vampire. He really did hate him, sometimes, no matter how much he tried to set that aside for a clearer perspective }
‘’ Well . . . I mean, c’mon, you saw how he treated Pyro! What he did to Apo, and how dependent he made Shelby, Drift and Avid. He started his own little . . . cult! And he pretends like he’s helping, but he’s not. And- . . . I guess I hate that I see some of myself in him. ‘’
Their hands fidgeted in their lap. “I don’t deny he was horrible- and you are nothing like him. But- Scott’s not my sire” They tilted their head, gaze flicking back to the little hourglass.
They groaned. “But I dont want it to be that way! Maybe try explaining it to me?” They were frustrated that they couldn’t help Allen with whatever was bothering him.
{ He sighs, rolling his eyes as he moves to sit up, gently cupping their face and giving him a long kiss. When he pulls away, he’s smirking as he boops their nose }
It will be quick, and then they can have a good time. That’s what Allen keeps telling himself as he waits just outside the castle. He wouldn’t say it, and you can never really tell, but he’s scared. Terrified, actually. And for good reason. The last time he was given a mission like this, he almost met the same fate as his family. Of course, he was inexperienced and insecure back then. Today he’s prepared. Today, there’s something worth fighting to return to.
—
@onyx-of-oakhurst + anyone else who feels like joining! the setting is a gala (see prev rp starter)
“Hello love” They purred, walking up besides Allen. “You ready to have some fun with this?” They were attempting to not only ease their own nerves about the banquet-but also their lover’s.
They smiled in return, grasping Allen’s hand and they walking into the grand doors. “I’m sure you’ll be great” They whispered to him as they swept a gaze across the already crowded dance floor.
{ He rolled his eyes, searching for that old, wretched face, and thankfully, it wasn’t long before he found it hidden in conversation with other fanciful folk. He purred, turning to press a quick kiss to Onyx’s cheek }
‘’ I sincerely hope you’re right. I’ll be right back, dear. ‘’
{ And with that, his smile fell and his hand broke away from theirs as he disappeared into the crowd, only being seen as he left to the balcony with his old boss joined by arm. One can only wish him luck that he does not get caught a second time }
They watched as he went, but only for a moment as he was soon lost by the crowd. They resigned themselves to simply swaying to the music played by the band.
{ True to his word, it wasn’t long before he was back down from the balcony, with no one else following behind. Despite seeing Onyx clearly, he headed straight for one of the doors to outside, seemingly to catch a breath. As glad that he is that it’s over with, he can’t help but ache and shake, remembering the way the moon caught him again falling someone for another’s gain }
They glanced over at Allen, happy to see that he was alright. A body swiftly moved in from of their gaze, crow black hair swooping in front of their face.
“May I have this dance?”
Something about the figure seemed familiar- ‘Surely it’s not him?! Maybe he won’t remember me. It was a year ago after all.’
They flicked their gaze to the man’s hand, grasping it nervously. “Of course.”
{ Still outside, he wandered the gardens before spotting a bench and sitting down upon it. With a wary glance around the empty garden, his form shifted, with that familiar, bloodied coral resuming its usually unseen position. He closed his eyes briefly, though what happened should’ve been years for any regular folk. Still, within a few seconds he stood and walked again into the ballroom, grabbing a drink only to be caught by a familiar face }
“Allen! There’s my fiery hand! How has the night treated you so far?”
{ The king’s questioning look at his coral didn’t fly past unnoticed, but he didn’t bring it up, either, instead focusing on the conversation ahead, and how to get out of it }
‘’ Wonderful. Just took a trip up to the balcony and the moon was such a marvelous sight. Oh! And these drinks? Splendid. Thank you for informing me which is which. ‘’
They nervously shuffled along the basics of the dance- some old slow folk song they hardly knew. The taller man seemed confident in his movements, perhaps holding on a little too tightly to the vampire’s hands.
“Now what’s a lovely young person like you doing all alone at such a large party like this?”
They swallowed, avoiding eye contact with the man. “Oh, you know how it goes-just out for a friendly bit of dancing and maybe some drinks.” They thought maybe it wouldn’t be wise to mention Allen to the man.
{ The king smiled, nodding to acknowledge the secret phrase exchanged. Though, his smile dimmed when he recalled how Allen typically is after a job }
“Don’t suppose you’ll be sticking around much longer?”
{ At that, a crooked smile crossed Allen’s face as he pulled a miniature hourglass out of a hidden pocket. He twirled it back and forth, eyes focused on it before they snap up to the crown }
‘’ Ohhh noooo, I think I’ll be around a moment longer. Can’t let the night go to waste, now, can we? ‘’
{ Before another word can be spoken, the king is pulled off into a conversation with some up-starts while Allen shifts his focus to the search of the ballroom, temptations nagging at the back of his mind }
The song finally came to an end and Onyx was more than happy to step back when the man tightened his grip on their arm.
“Oh, another dance please. I insist.”
They froze, reluctantly following his footsteps to the next song. ‘It’s fear’ they told themselves as they danced ‘surely it’s just fear. That’s normal’ They caught a glimpse of his eyes behind his hair- blood red. ‘It’s him’ the realization dawned on them as they fought to take unneeded breaths.
{ He circled around the dance floor, giving and accepting short dance requests before coming upon Onyx and their odd pair. Though, he walked away quickly enough, only to join the band on stage and switch with the current bass player, who clearly needed a breather. With a charming smile and easy attitude, Allen convinces the band to all take a break, promising that he’ll watch over their instruments while they get a drink. And with that, the music goes on an eerie pause, the only sound being the gentle tapping of sand in his hourglass as it makes contact with the bottom }
They could not have been more grateful for the lull in music as they quickly scrambled backwards from him. “St-stay away from me!” They hissed, trying to disappear into the crowd.
“Oh come on love, I’m not doing any harm. Let’s just put the past in the past Onyx.”
They shook their head frantically. “I said stay away Corvin!” They shrieked, spotting Allen on the stage. ‘Oh thank the saints’ They weaved in between people, heading for the stage as fast as they could- most likely with their former side pursuing.
{ The entire commotion doesn’t fall on empty ears. In fact, Allen’s quick to lay the bass in its case as he heads towards the end of the stage, picking Onyx up and urging them to take his previous seat as he faces the oh-so aggressively average man }
‘’ Do you have a problem, sir? I promise, the band will be making their return very soon. In the meantime, I’m taking requests. Do you have any? ‘’
Onyx sat down heavily, eyes wide and frightened before they watched Allen handle it. Honestly- they should be more concerned for Allen right now but they were too wrapped up in their panic. They heard the conversation between the two.
“No problems here. Just catching up with an old acquaintance. I’ll wait for the band to come back.”
Corvin’s voice was as silky smooth as before- it sent shivers down their spine.
{ He purrs, tilting his head to the side thoughtfully }
‘’ Ohh, but I’m not sure that your ‘old acquaintance’ wants to catch up with you. ‘’
{ He snaps his fingers, as if finally catching an idea }
‘’ Tell you what, how about I tell your fortune for you, huh? I’m quite knowledgeable like that. Let’s see . . . ‘’
{ It’s a hidden movement as he reaches behind for the hourglass, which spins around before shifting into a diamond blade, warped by ocean tides and wrapped in coral. Infused in it is decorative iron used to be reminiscent of the stars, but now, it serves a purpose as Allen points it straight at Corvin’s throat }
‘’ . . . I think that you’ll leave this town for good if you want to keep not only your head, but also those that you need. After all, I’m not above a little massacre, it’s what I do, and I’ve been craving it all night. ‘’
Onyx’s eyes widened as they saw Allen pull the knife before gawking at the out of character response from Corvin.
“Woah now darling, let’s calm down. I’ll just leave and you lot can continue your night in peace.”
Corvin held his hands up warily, taking a half step back, something odd flickering in his eyes. Surely he wasnt scared right? Onyx had lived personally maybe too personally with this man for over a year and never seen him scared. They stood and walked up behind Allen with newfound confidence at his lover’s approach.
Onyx bared their unusually sharp teeth at Corvin. “You heard him.” They snapped, confident at Allen’s side.
They watched as Corvin gave a low growl before sulking off into the crowd. As soon as he disappeared, Onyx let out an unneeded shaky breath. “Thank you.”
{ He nods, twirling the blade back into an hourglass before he grabs their hand and pulls them backstage. Even when they’re hidden by the curtains—out of all prying eyes—he refuses to let go of their hand }
‘’ Are you okay? Holy- Onyx, do I need to go after him? I will! It’s tempting, believe me. I was not joking about all that, I will become the Owen of this town if I must . . . oh, my love . . . ‘’
{ He reaches his other hand to cup their cheek, gently rubbing his thumb across it. All confidence that he portrayed is melted away to reveal something softer; duller despite its broken edges }
Their eyes were slightly frantic as they subconsciously leaned into his hand. “I-uh maybe? I do-don’t know. I’m sorry. I’m really sorry.” They shut their eyes, trying to take stuttering breaths to calm themselves down.
{ He doesn’t wait much of a second, searching their face for any cues before pulling them into a hug. He moves his hands to wrap around them, gently rubbing their back }
‘’ It’s not your fault. There’s no need to be sorry. I’m sorry you have to deal with him. No one deserves that. You’re okay now. You’re safe. Just breathe. ‘’
They nuzzled into the nook of Allen’s shoulder. Their breaths eventually evened out until they stopped entirely. Maybe their body was actually calm now. They pulled back a bit, still staying in Allen’s arms. It was comforting. “Sorry, you shouldn’t have to deal with this too- I know tonight was already stressful for you. I mean- what are the chances he just happens to show up at the same gala and dance with me…”
They smiled at the kiss, nodding slowly. “If you’re sure…” they were a bit uncertain about that. “You’re hot when you’re threatening.” They teased, trying to take their mind off of the fact that Corbin knew more than they were comfortable with about where they were, why they looked like now, and… Allen.
{ He smiles only briefly before their tease registered, and his face grew red in an instant. Immediately he covers his face with his hands, whining at his current circumstances }
‘’ Don’t say that . . . I’m not! There’s nothing hot about that! . . . I don’t need people figuring out a new way to tease me. ‘’
They smiled, flicking his nose with a finger as they lifted one of his hands up. “It is! It’s nice to know someone is there to protect me in such a threatening manner.” They purred at Allen’s red face. oh how the turns have tabled.
{ He only flustered even more, lowering his other hand, though he still doesn’t meet their gaze }
‘’ I hate you . . . ‘’
{ After a second, he kisses them, pulling away with the light dragging of his fangs on their lower lip, hoping despite himself that maybe it’ll stop the teasing for a bit }
They purred, flashing a toothy grin at him. “Sure you do.” They leaned back in again, anxiety temporarily diminished with Allen. They leaned into the kiss before pulling back. “How long is the band away for?”
They shook their head. “I’m fine with it- they might be a little spooked to see two strangers backstage.” They didn’t really want to dance right now- it seemed too recent from earlier. “Maybe we go and get something to drink?”
{ Soon enough, they reach the table, and he lets go of their hand to take one of the bottles and drink . . . but he almost immediately slams the bottle down again, wary of the taste reminding them of that body- . . . is she still up there? Spirits, he really is like Pyro . . . }
They stood at the table, connecting some of the dots between Allen’s reaction and the bits of fired blood speckling his mouth. “Here,” they extended their wrist to him. “It’ll taste different.”
{ His eyes widen at their offering, though it’s not long before he inevitably sinks his teeth into it. Thankfully, it does taste different. In fact, it tastes much better than any others he’s tried in a long time . . . but he has to pull away. Both for his reputation and to keep his lover semiconscious }
They nodded, sitting down to combat the minor dizziness. “Of course love.” They reached out with their other hand, grabbing the bottle and taking a swig. “Send my thanks to the king- this is pretty good.”
{ He nods, licking the remaining blood from his lips as he grabs a chair to sit next to them in. He takes their wrist in his hand, gently rubbing his thumb over the wound before lifting it up to his mouth a pressing a kiss to it before letting it fall to their side again }
The purred at the movement. “Kisses make everything better right?” They chuckled a bit, watching the band come back to the stage. “How did you end up on stage? I didn’t know you played.”
{ He hums, smiling just a smidge as he watches the band pick up their instruments. The bass player waves at him, and he does so as well before turning to face Onyx better }
‘’ There’s a lot of things you don’t know about me, dove. I do know how to play, in fact I’m an expert at double bass, and given a few days, I can typically pick up any instrument. Though . . . ever since Oakhurst I’ve stopped playing. Not for any particularly odd reason, I just haven’t had much time, and that town is very draining to any motivation one may have. ‘’
They watched the band before listening to Allen. “Well then there’s plenty of time to learn all the wonderful things about you. I used to play the acoustic guitar- although I stopped a year ago or so before coming to Oakhurst for.. other reasons. I probably wouldn’t have been able to bring it with anyway.” They smiled. “I’d love to hear you play if you ever pick it up again.”
They purred, looping an arm lazily around him. “Maybe we could do a duet if I can scrounge one up.” They looked down at him with a feigned yawn. “All this excitement has me exhausted- maybe we head home for tonight.”
{ He hums, purring at the idea of a duet, though he hisses when they pitch heading home. It’s not that he hates the idea, he just- }
‘’ Noo, I wanna stay with you! I wanna stay outside! I’m tired of being locked away and only being out when someone decides I’m worth the trouble to use . . . ‘’
They flinched a little at the hiss but are more preoccupied with Allen’s words. “What? Allen- you’re your own person- you’re in charge of what you do and where you go. And I will murder anyone who says otherwise.” They pulled him further into them, fronting slightly.
{ He sighs, staring at the floor and all the dirt and dust that it’s begun to house }
‘’ I’m not though . . . not tonight, not for most of my life, not now. Even when I think I’m free, I’m someone’s secret weapon. I’m the king’s, I’m the clockmaker’s- and spirits know I was Adelaide’s for . . . I’m glad she’s gone. She deserved all she got tonight. ‘’
Their gaze hardened with anger. Not at Allen- at everyone who had made him feel this way. They grasped Allen’s face in their hands. “Look at me. You can stop being the king’s pawn. We could run away right now- somewhere they won’t find us. You deserve to have a peaceful life.” They left out the bit about the clockmakers. They didn’t quite understand it- no matter how much he explained it. Perhaps it was just out of their control to grasp.
{ He stares at them, opening his mouth to speak but ends up closing it again. Eventually, he forces his gaze away from their own, though he doesn’t pry off their hands }
‘’ . . . I can’t. I have to save others before they end up like me. Broken. ‘’
They gave a sad smile. “Being broken is okay.” They didn’t deny it. “We’ll be broken together- two halves make a whole right?” They ran a thumb over his cheek. “If.. if that’s what you want, then we’ll do it together. Like in a movie- Allen and Onyx- saving the world.” They chuckled, trying to bring up his mood.
They squeezed his hand. “It’s alright- we’re in it together right?” They chuckled. “The world really better look out for us if we’re banding together- we might be too powerful.”
They cursed goodheartedly under their breath. “Saints save me” They rolled their eyes at Allen. “I suppose I must- if you keep saving my butt like this.”
{ He hums, fixating again on the hourglass, but not on the sand; on the emptiness left behind it }
‘’ It’s an hourglass. A family heirloom of sorts, it helps to manage the powers of a Clockmaker, which is considerably helpful for me seeing as I have no one to teach me how to use said powers thanks to my entire family being massacred . . . ‘’
{ The more he rants, the more his speech seems to slur, but some things can still be made out }
They frowned slightly. “That’s… sort of cool? It’s like a guide?” They chuckled. “Wish I had something like that when I first got turned.” They didn’t quite catch the last bit of the sentence, thoughts a bit scrambled.
{ He taps the glass, body tensing at remembering the elder vampire. He really did hate him, sometimes, no matter how much he tried to set that aside for a clearer perspective }
‘’ Well . . . I mean, c’mon, you saw how he treated Pyro! What he did to Apo, and how dependent he made Shelby, Drift and Avid. He started his own little . . . cult! And he pretends like he’s helping, but he’s not. And- . . . I guess I hate that I see some of myself in him. ‘’
Their hands fidgeted in their lap. “I don’t deny he was horrible- and you are nothing like him. But- Scott’s not my sire” They tilted their head, gaze flicking back to the little hourglass.
They groaned. “But I dont want it to be that way! Maybe try explaining it to me?” They were frustrated that they couldn’t help Allen with whatever was bothering him.
{ He sighs, rolling his eyes as he moves to sit up, gently cupping their face and giving him a long kiss. When he pulls away, he’s smirking as he boops their nose }
It will be quick, and then they can have a good time. That’s what Allen keeps telling himself as he waits just outside the castle. He wouldn’t say it, and you can never really tell, but he’s scared. Terrified, actually. And for good reason. The last time he was given a mission like this, he almost met the same fate as his family. Of course, he was inexperienced and insecure back then. Today he’s prepared. Today, there’s something worth fighting to return to.
—
@onyx-of-oakhurst + anyone else who feels like joining! the setting is a gala (see prev rp starter)
“Hello love” They purred, walking up besides Allen. “You ready to have some fun with this?” They were attempting to not only ease their own nerves about the banquet-but also their lover’s.
They smiled in return, grasping Allen’s hand and they walking into the grand doors. “I’m sure you’ll be great” They whispered to him as they swept a gaze across the already crowded dance floor.
{ He rolled his eyes, searching for that old, wretched face, and thankfully, it wasn’t long before he found it hidden in conversation with other fanciful folk. He purred, turning to press a quick kiss to Onyx’s cheek }
‘’ I sincerely hope you’re right. I’ll be right back, dear. ‘’
{ And with that, his smile fell and his hand broke away from theirs as he disappeared into the crowd, only being seen as he left to the balcony with his old boss joined by arm. One can only wish him luck that he does not get caught a second time }
They watched as he went, but only for a moment as he was soon lost by the crowd. They resigned themselves to simply swaying to the music played by the band.
{ True to his word, it wasn’t long before he was back down from the balcony, with no one else following behind. Despite seeing Onyx clearly, he headed straight for one of the doors to outside, seemingly to catch a breath. As glad that he is that it’s over with, he can’t help but ache and shake, remembering the way the moon caught him again falling someone for another’s gain }
They glanced over at Allen, happy to see that he was alright. A body swiftly moved in from of their gaze, crow black hair swooping in front of their face.
“May I have this dance?”
Something about the figure seemed familiar- ‘Surely it’s not him?! Maybe he won’t remember me. It was a year ago after all.’
They flicked their gaze to the man’s hand, grasping it nervously. “Of course.”
{ Still outside, he wandered the gardens before spotting a bench and sitting down upon it. With a wary glance around the empty garden, his form shifted, with that familiar, bloodied coral resuming its usually unseen position. He closed his eyes briefly, though what happened should’ve been years for any regular folk. Still, within a few seconds he stood and walked again into the ballroom, grabbing a drink only to be caught by a familiar face }
“Allen! There’s my fiery hand! How has the night treated you so far?”
{ The king’s questioning look at his coral didn’t fly past unnoticed, but he didn’t bring it up, either, instead focusing on the conversation ahead, and how to get out of it }
‘’ Wonderful. Just took a trip up to the balcony and the moon was such a marvelous sight. Oh! And these drinks? Splendid. Thank you for informing me which is which. ‘’
They nervously shuffled along the basics of the dance- some old slow folk song they hardly knew. The taller man seemed confident in his movements, perhaps holding on a little too tightly to the vampire’s hands.
“Now what’s a lovely young person like you doing all alone at such a large party like this?”
They swallowed, avoiding eye contact with the man. “Oh, you know how it goes-just out for a friendly bit of dancing and maybe some drinks.” They thought maybe it wouldn’t be wise to mention Allen to the man.
{ The king smiled, nodding to acknowledge the secret phrase exchanged. Though, his smile dimmed when he recalled how Allen typically is after a job }
“Don’t suppose you’ll be sticking around much longer?”
{ At that, a crooked smile crossed Allen’s face as he pulled a miniature hourglass out of a hidden pocket. He twirled it back and forth, eyes focused on it before they snap up to the crown }
‘’ Ohhh noooo, I think I’ll be around a moment longer. Can’t let the night go to waste, now, can we? ‘’
{ Before another word can be spoken, the king is pulled off into a conversation with some up-starts while Allen shifts his focus to the search of the ballroom, temptations nagging at the back of his mind }
The song finally came to an end and Onyx was more than happy to step back when the man tightened his grip on their arm.
“Oh, another dance please. I insist.”
They froze, reluctantly following his footsteps to the next song. ‘It’s fear’ they told themselves as they danced ‘surely it’s just fear. That’s normal’ They caught a glimpse of his eyes behind his hair- blood red. ‘It’s him’ the realization dawned on them as they fought to take unneeded breaths.
{ He circled around the dance floor, giving and accepting short dance requests before coming upon Onyx and their odd pair. Though, he walked away quickly enough, only to join the band on stage and switch with the current bass player, who clearly needed a breather. With a charming smile and easy attitude, Allen convinces the band to all take a break, promising that he’ll watch over their instruments while they get a drink. And with that, the music goes on an eerie pause, the only sound being the gentle tapping of sand in his hourglass as it makes contact with the bottom }
They could not have been more grateful for the lull in music as they quickly scrambled backwards from him. “St-stay away from me!” They hissed, trying to disappear into the crowd.
“Oh come on love, I’m not doing any harm. Let’s just put the past in the past Onyx.”
They shook their head frantically. “I said stay away Corvin!” They shrieked, spotting Allen on the stage. ‘Oh thank the saints’ They weaved in between people, heading for the stage as fast as they could- most likely with their former side pursuing.
{ The entire commotion doesn’t fall on empty ears. In fact, Allen’s quick to lay the bass in its case as he heads towards the end of the stage, picking Onyx up and urging them to take his previous seat as he faces the oh-so aggressively average man }
‘’ Do you have a problem, sir? I promise, the band will be making their return very soon. In the meantime, I’m taking requests. Do you have any? ‘’
Onyx sat down heavily, eyes wide and frightened before they watched Allen handle it. Honestly- they should be more concerned for Allen right now but they were too wrapped up in their panic. They heard the conversation between the two.
“No problems here. Just catching up with an old acquaintance. I’ll wait for the band to come back.”
Corvin’s voice was as silky smooth as before- it sent shivers down their spine.
{ He purrs, tilting his head to the side thoughtfully }
‘’ Ohh, but I’m not sure that your ‘old acquaintance’ wants to catch up with you. ‘’
{ He snaps his fingers, as if finally catching an idea }
‘’ Tell you what, how about I tell your fortune for you, huh? I’m quite knowledgeable like that. Let’s see . . . ‘’
{ It’s a hidden movement as he reaches behind for the hourglass, which spins around before shifting into a diamond blade, warped by ocean tides and wrapped in coral. Infused in it is decorative iron used to be reminiscent of the stars, but now, it serves a purpose as Allen points it straight at Corvin’s throat }
‘’ . . . I think that you’ll leave this town for good if you want to keep not only your head, but also those that you need. After all, I’m not above a little massacre, it’s what I do, and I’ve been craving it all night. ‘’
Onyx’s eyes widened as they saw Allen pull the knife before gawking at the out of character response from Corvin.
“Woah now darling, let’s calm down. I’ll just leave and you lot can continue your night in peace.”
Corvin held his hands up warily, taking a half step back, something odd flickering in his eyes. Surely he wasnt scared right? Onyx had lived personally maybe too personally with this man for over a year and never seen him scared. They stood and walked up behind Allen with newfound confidence at his lover’s approach.
Onyx bared their unusually sharp teeth at Corvin. “You heard him.” They snapped, confident at Allen’s side.
They watched as Corvin gave a low growl before sulking off into the crowd. As soon as he disappeared, Onyx let out an unneeded shaky breath. “Thank you.”
{ He nods, twirling the blade back into an hourglass before he grabs their hand and pulls them backstage. Even when they’re hidden by the curtains—out of all prying eyes—he refuses to let go of their hand }
‘’ Are you okay? Holy- Onyx, do I need to go after him? I will! It’s tempting, believe me. I was not joking about all that, I will become the Owen of this town if I must . . . oh, my love . . . ‘’
{ He reaches his other hand to cup their cheek, gently rubbing his thumb across it. All confidence that he portrayed is melted away to reveal something softer; duller despite its broken edges }
Their eyes were slightly frantic as they subconsciously leaned into his hand. “I-uh maybe? I do-don’t know. I’m sorry. I’m really sorry.” They shut their eyes, trying to take stuttering breaths to calm themselves down.
{ He doesn’t wait much of a second, searching their face for any cues before pulling them into a hug. He moves his hands to wrap around them, gently rubbing their back }
‘’ It’s not your fault. There’s no need to be sorry. I’m sorry you have to deal with him. No one deserves that. You’re okay now. You’re safe. Just breathe. ‘’
They nuzzled into the nook of Allen’s shoulder. Their breaths eventually evened out until they stopped entirely. Maybe their body was actually calm now. They pulled back a bit, still staying in Allen’s arms. It was comforting. “Sorry, you shouldn’t have to deal with this too- I know tonight was already stressful for you. I mean- what are the chances he just happens to show up at the same gala and dance with me…”
They smiled at the kiss, nodding slowly. “If you’re sure…” they were a bit uncertain about that. “You’re hot when you’re threatening.” They teased, trying to take their mind off of the fact that Corbin knew more than they were comfortable with about where they were, why they looked like now, and… Allen.
{ He smiles only briefly before their tease registered, and his face grew red in an instant. Immediately he covers his face with his hands, whining at his current circumstances }
‘’ Don’t say that . . . I’m not! There’s nothing hot about that! . . . I don’t need people figuring out a new way to tease me. ‘’
They smiled, flicking his nose with a finger as they lifted one of his hands up. “It is! It’s nice to know someone is there to protect me in such a threatening manner.” They purred at Allen’s red face. oh how the turns have tabled.
{ He only flustered even more, lowering his other hand, though he still doesn’t meet their gaze }
‘’ I hate you . . . ‘’
{ After a second, he kisses them, pulling away with the light dragging of his fangs on their lower lip, hoping despite himself that maybe it’ll stop the teasing for a bit }
They purred, flashing a toothy grin at him. “Sure you do.” They leaned back in again, anxiety temporarily diminished with Allen. They leaned into the kiss before pulling back. “How long is the band away for?”
They shook their head. “I’m fine with it- they might be a little spooked to see two strangers backstage.” They didn’t really want to dance right now- it seemed too recent from earlier. “Maybe we go and get something to drink?”
{ Soon enough, they reach the table, and he lets go of their hand to take one of the bottles and drink . . . but he almost immediately slams the bottle down again, wary of the taste reminding them of that body- . . . is she still up there? Spirits, he really is like Pyro . . . }
They stood at the table, connecting some of the dots between Allen’s reaction and the bits of fired blood speckling his mouth. “Here,” they extended their wrist to him. “It’ll taste different.”
{ His eyes widen at their offering, though it’s not long before he inevitably sinks his teeth into it. Thankfully, it does taste different. In fact, it tastes much better than any others he’s tried in a long time . . . but he has to pull away. Both for his reputation and to keep his lover semiconscious }
They nodded, sitting down to combat the minor dizziness. “Of course love.” They reached out with their other hand, grabbing the bottle and taking a swig. “Send my thanks to the king- this is pretty good.”
{ He nods, licking the remaining blood from his lips as he grabs a chair to sit next to them in. He takes their wrist in his hand, gently rubbing his thumb over the wound before lifting it up to his mouth a pressing a kiss to it before letting it fall to their side again }
The purred at the movement. “Kisses make everything better right?” They chuckled a bit, watching the band come back to the stage. “How did you end up on stage? I didn’t know you played.”
{ He hums, smiling just a smidge as he watches the band pick up their instruments. The bass player waves at him, and he does so as well before turning to face Onyx better }
‘’ There’s a lot of things you don’t know about me, dove. I do know how to play, in fact I’m an expert at double bass, and given a few days, I can typically pick up any instrument. Though . . . ever since Oakhurst I’ve stopped playing. Not for any particularly odd reason, I just haven’t had much time, and that town is very draining to any motivation one may have. ‘’
They watched the band before listening to Allen. “Well then there’s plenty of time to learn all the wonderful things about you. I used to play the acoustic guitar- although I stopped a year ago or so before coming to Oakhurst for.. other reasons. I probably wouldn’t have been able to bring it with anyway.” They smiled. “I’d love to hear you play if you ever pick it up again.”
They purred, looping an arm lazily around him. “Maybe we could do a duet if I can scrounge one up.” They looked down at him with a feigned yawn. “All this excitement has me exhausted- maybe we head home for tonight.”
{ He hums, purring at the idea of a duet, though he hisses when they pitch heading home. It’s not that he hates the idea, he just- }
‘’ Noo, I wanna stay with you! I wanna stay outside! I’m tired of being locked away and only being out when someone decides I’m worth the trouble to use . . . ‘’
They flinched a little at the hiss but are more preoccupied with Allen’s words. “What? Allen- you’re your own person- you’re in charge of what you do and where you go. And I will murder anyone who says otherwise.” They pulled him further into them, fronting slightly.
{ He sighs, staring at the floor and all the dirt and dust that it’s begun to house }
‘’ I’m not though . . . not tonight, not for most of my life, not now. Even when I think I’m free, I’m someone’s secret weapon. I’m the king’s, I’m the clockmaker’s- and spirits know I was Adelaide’s for . . . I’m glad she’s gone. She deserved all she got tonight. ‘’
Their gaze hardened with anger. Not at Allen- at everyone who had made him feel this way. They grasped Allen’s face in their hands. “Look at me. You can stop being the king’s pawn. We could run away right now- somewhere they won’t find us. You deserve to have a peaceful life.” They left out the bit about the clockmakers. They didn’t quite understand it- no matter how much he explained it. Perhaps it was just out of their control to grasp.
{ He stares at them, opening his mouth to speak but ends up closing it again. Eventually, he forces his gaze away from their own, though he doesn’t pry off their hands }
‘’ . . . I can’t. I have to save others before they end up like me. Broken. ‘’
They gave a sad smile. “Being broken is okay.” They didn’t deny it. “We’ll be broken together- two halves make a whole right?” They ran a thumb over his cheek. “If.. if that’s what you want, then we’ll do it together. Like in a movie- Allen and Onyx- saving the world.” They chuckled, trying to bring up his mood.
They squeezed his hand. “It’s alright- we’re in it together right?” They chuckled. “The world really better look out for us if we’re banding together- we might be too powerful.”
They cursed goodheartedly under their breath. “Saints save me” They rolled their eyes at Allen. “I suppose I must- if you keep saving my butt like this.”
{ He hums, fixating again on the hourglass, but not on the sand; on the emptiness left behind it }
‘’ It’s an hourglass. A family heirloom of sorts, it helps to manage the powers of a Clockmaker, which is considerably helpful for me seeing as I have no one to teach me how to use said powers thanks to my entire family being massacred . . . ‘’
{ The more he rants, the more his speech seems to slur, but some things can still be made out }
They frowned slightly. “That’s… sort of cool? It’s like a guide?” They chuckled. “Wish I had something like that when I first got turned.” They didn’t quite catch the last bit of the sentence, thoughts a bit scrambled.
{ He taps the glass, body tensing at remembering the elder vampire. He really did hate him, sometimes, no matter how much he tried to set that aside for a clearer perspective }
‘’ Well . . . I mean, c’mon, you saw how he treated Pyro! What he did to Apo, and how dependent he made Shelby, Drift and Avid. He started his own little . . . cult! And he pretends like he’s helping, but he’s not. And- . . . I guess I hate that I see some of myself in him. ‘’
Their hands fidgeted in their lap. “I don’t deny he was horrible- and you are nothing like him. But- Scott’s not my sire” They tilted their head, gaze flicking back to the little hourglass.
They groaned. “But I dont want it to be that way! Maybe try explaining it to me?” They were frustrated that they couldn’t help Allen with whatever was bothering him.
{ He sighs, rolling his eyes as he moves to sit up, gently cupping their face and giving him a long kiss. When he pulls away, he’s smirking as he boops their nose }
It will be quick, and then they can have a good time. That’s what Allen keeps telling himself as he waits just outside the castle. He wouldn’t say it, and you can never really tell, but he’s scared. Terrified, actually. And for good reason. The last time he was given a mission like this, he almost met the same fate as his family. Of course, he was inexperienced and insecure back then. Today he’s prepared. Today, there’s something worth fighting to return to.
—
@onyx-of-oakhurst + anyone else who feels like joining! the setting is a gala (see prev rp starter)
“Hello love” They purred, walking up besides Allen. “You ready to have some fun with this?” They were attempting to not only ease their own nerves about the banquet-but also their lover’s.
They smiled in return, grasping Allen’s hand and they walking into the grand doors. “I’m sure you’ll be great” They whispered to him as they swept a gaze across the already crowded dance floor.
{ He rolled his eyes, searching for that old, wretched face, and thankfully, it wasn’t long before he found it hidden in conversation with other fanciful folk. He purred, turning to press a quick kiss to Onyx’s cheek }
‘’ I sincerely hope you’re right. I’ll be right back, dear. ‘’
{ And with that, his smile fell and his hand broke away from theirs as he disappeared into the crowd, only being seen as he left to the balcony with his old boss joined by arm. One can only wish him luck that he does not get caught a second time }
They watched as he went, but only for a moment as he was soon lost by the crowd. They resigned themselves to simply swaying to the music played by the band.
{ True to his word, it wasn’t long before he was back down from the balcony, with no one else following behind. Despite seeing Onyx clearly, he headed straight for one of the doors to outside, seemingly to catch a breath. As glad that he is that it’s over with, he can’t help but ache and shake, remembering the way the moon caught him again falling someone for another’s gain }
They glanced over at Allen, happy to see that he was alright. A body swiftly moved in from of their gaze, crow black hair swooping in front of their face.
“May I have this dance?”
Something about the figure seemed familiar- ‘Surely it’s not him?! Maybe he won’t remember me. It was a year ago after all.’
They flicked their gaze to the man’s hand, grasping it nervously. “Of course.”
{ Still outside, he wandered the gardens before spotting a bench and sitting down upon it. With a wary glance around the empty garden, his form shifted, with that familiar, bloodied coral resuming its usually unseen position. He closed his eyes briefly, though what happened should’ve been years for any regular folk. Still, within a few seconds he stood and walked again into the ballroom, grabbing a drink only to be caught by a familiar face }
“Allen! There’s my fiery hand! How has the night treated you so far?”
{ The king’s questioning look at his coral didn’t fly past unnoticed, but he didn’t bring it up, either, instead focusing on the conversation ahead, and how to get out of it }
‘’ Wonderful. Just took a trip up to the balcony and the moon was such a marvelous sight. Oh! And these drinks? Splendid. Thank you for informing me which is which. ‘’
They nervously shuffled along the basics of the dance- some old slow folk song they hardly knew. The taller man seemed confident in his movements, perhaps holding on a little too tightly to the vampire’s hands.
“Now what’s a lovely young person like you doing all alone at such a large party like this?”
They swallowed, avoiding eye contact with the man. “Oh, you know how it goes-just out for a friendly bit of dancing and maybe some drinks.” They thought maybe it wouldn’t be wise to mention Allen to the man.
{ The king smiled, nodding to acknowledge the secret phrase exchanged. Though, his smile dimmed when he recalled how Allen typically is after a job }
“Don’t suppose you’ll be sticking around much longer?”
{ At that, a crooked smile crossed Allen’s face as he pulled a miniature hourglass out of a hidden pocket. He twirled it back and forth, eyes focused on it before they snap up to the crown }
‘’ Ohhh noooo, I think I’ll be around a moment longer. Can’t let the night go to waste, now, can we? ‘’
{ Before another word can be spoken, the king is pulled off into a conversation with some up-starts while Allen shifts his focus to the search of the ballroom, temptations nagging at the back of his mind }
The song finally came to an end and Onyx was more than happy to step back when the man tightened his grip on their arm.
“Oh, another dance please. I insist.”
They froze, reluctantly following his footsteps to the next song. ‘It’s fear’ they told themselves as they danced ‘surely it’s just fear. That’s normal’ They caught a glimpse of his eyes behind his hair- blood red. ‘It’s him’ the realization dawned on them as they fought to take unneeded breaths.
{ He circled around the dance floor, giving and accepting short dance requests before coming upon Onyx and their odd pair. Though, he walked away quickly enough, only to join the band on stage and switch with the current bass player, who clearly needed a breather. With a charming smile and easy attitude, Allen convinces the band to all take a break, promising that he’ll watch over their instruments while they get a drink. And with that, the music goes on an eerie pause, the only sound being the gentle tapping of sand in his hourglass as it makes contact with the bottom }
They could not have been more grateful for the lull in music as they quickly scrambled backwards from him. “St-stay away from me!” They hissed, trying to disappear into the crowd.
“Oh come on love, I’m not doing any harm. Let’s just put the past in the past Onyx.”
They shook their head frantically. “I said stay away Corvin!” They shrieked, spotting Allen on the stage. ‘Oh thank the saints’ They weaved in between people, heading for the stage as fast as they could- most likely with their former side pursuing.
{ The entire commotion doesn’t fall on empty ears. In fact, Allen’s quick to lay the bass in its case as he heads towards the end of the stage, picking Onyx up and urging them to take his previous seat as he faces the oh-so aggressively average man }
‘’ Do you have a problem, sir? I promise, the band will be making their return very soon. In the meantime, I’m taking requests. Do you have any? ‘’
Onyx sat down heavily, eyes wide and frightened before they watched Allen handle it. Honestly- they should be more concerned for Allen right now but they were too wrapped up in their panic. They heard the conversation between the two.
“No problems here. Just catching up with an old acquaintance. I’ll wait for the band to come back.”
Corvin’s voice was as silky smooth as before- it sent shivers down their spine.
{ He purrs, tilting his head to the side thoughtfully }
‘’ Ohh, but I’m not sure that your ‘old acquaintance’ wants to catch up with you. ‘’
{ He snaps his fingers, as if finally catching an idea }
‘’ Tell you what, how about I tell your fortune for you, huh? I’m quite knowledgeable like that. Let’s see . . . ‘’
{ It’s a hidden movement as he reaches behind for the hourglass, which spins around before shifting into a diamond blade, warped by ocean tides and wrapped in coral. Infused in it is decorative iron used to be reminiscent of the stars, but now, it serves a purpose as Allen points it straight at Corvin’s throat }
‘’ . . . I think that you’ll leave this town for good if you want to keep not only your head, but also those that you need. After all, I’m not above a little massacre, it’s what I do, and I’ve been craving it all night. ‘’
Onyx’s eyes widened as they saw Allen pull the knife before gawking at the out of character response from Corvin.
“Woah now darling, let’s calm down. I’ll just leave and you lot can continue your night in peace.”
Corvin held his hands up warily, taking a half step back, something odd flickering in his eyes. Surely he wasnt scared right? Onyx had lived personally maybe too personally with this man for over a year and never seen him scared. They stood and walked up behind Allen with newfound confidence at his lover’s approach.
Onyx bared their unusually sharp teeth at Corvin. “You heard him.” They snapped, confident at Allen’s side.
They watched as Corvin gave a low growl before sulking off into the crowd. As soon as he disappeared, Onyx let out an unneeded shaky breath. “Thank you.”
{ He nods, twirling the blade back into an hourglass before he grabs their hand and pulls them backstage. Even when they’re hidden by the curtains—out of all prying eyes—he refuses to let go of their hand }
‘’ Are you okay? Holy- Onyx, do I need to go after him? I will! It’s tempting, believe me. I was not joking about all that, I will become the Owen of this town if I must . . . oh, my love . . . ‘’
{ He reaches his other hand to cup their cheek, gently rubbing his thumb across it. All confidence that he portrayed is melted away to reveal something softer; duller despite its broken edges }
Their eyes were slightly frantic as they subconsciously leaned into his hand. “I-uh maybe? I do-don’t know. I’m sorry. I’m really sorry.” They shut their eyes, trying to take stuttering breaths to calm themselves down.
{ He doesn’t wait much of a second, searching their face for any cues before pulling them into a hug. He moves his hands to wrap around them, gently rubbing their back }
‘’ It’s not your fault. There’s no need to be sorry. I’m sorry you have to deal with him. No one deserves that. You’re okay now. You’re safe. Just breathe. ‘’
They nuzzled into the nook of Allen’s shoulder. Their breaths eventually evened out until they stopped entirely. Maybe their body was actually calm now. They pulled back a bit, still staying in Allen’s arms. It was comforting. “Sorry, you shouldn’t have to deal with this too- I know tonight was already stressful for you. I mean- what are the chances he just happens to show up at the same gala and dance with me…”
They smiled at the kiss, nodding slowly. “If you’re sure…” they were a bit uncertain about that. “You’re hot when you’re threatening.” They teased, trying to take their mind off of the fact that Corbin knew more than they were comfortable with about where they were, why they looked like now, and… Allen.
{ He smiles only briefly before their tease registered, and his face grew red in an instant. Immediately he covers his face with his hands, whining at his current circumstances }
‘’ Don’t say that . . . I’m not! There’s nothing hot about that! . . . I don’t need people figuring out a new way to tease me. ‘’
They smiled, flicking his nose with a finger as they lifted one of his hands up. “It is! It’s nice to know someone is there to protect me in such a threatening manner.” They purred at Allen’s red face. oh how the turns have tabled.
{ He only flustered even more, lowering his other hand, though he still doesn’t meet their gaze }
‘’ I hate you . . . ‘’
{ After a second, he kisses them, pulling away with the light dragging of his fangs on their lower lip, hoping despite himself that maybe it’ll stop the teasing for a bit }
They purred, flashing a toothy grin at him. “Sure you do.” They leaned back in again, anxiety temporarily diminished with Allen. They leaned into the kiss before pulling back. “How long is the band away for?”
They shook their head. “I’m fine with it- they might be a little spooked to see two strangers backstage.” They didn’t really want to dance right now- it seemed too recent from earlier. “Maybe we go and get something to drink?”
{ Soon enough, they reach the table, and he lets go of their hand to take one of the bottles and drink . . . but he almost immediately slams the bottle down again, wary of the taste reminding them of that body- . . . is she still up there? Spirits, he really is like Pyro . . . }
They stood at the table, connecting some of the dots between Allen’s reaction and the bits of fired blood speckling his mouth. “Here,” they extended their wrist to him. “It’ll taste different.”
{ His eyes widen at their offering, though it’s not long before he inevitably sinks his teeth into it. Thankfully, it does taste different. In fact, it tastes much better than any others he’s tried in a long time . . . but he has to pull away. Both for his reputation and to keep his lover semiconscious }
They nodded, sitting down to combat the minor dizziness. “Of course love.” They reached out with their other hand, grabbing the bottle and taking a swig. “Send my thanks to the king- this is pretty good.”
{ He nods, licking the remaining blood from his lips as he grabs a chair to sit next to them in. He takes their wrist in his hand, gently rubbing his thumb over the wound before lifting it up to his mouth a pressing a kiss to it before letting it fall to their side again }
The purred at the movement. “Kisses make everything better right?” They chuckled a bit, watching the band come back to the stage. “How did you end up on stage? I didn’t know you played.”
{ He hums, smiling just a smidge as he watches the band pick up their instruments. The bass player waves at him, and he does so as well before turning to face Onyx better }
‘’ There’s a lot of things you don’t know about me, dove. I do know how to play, in fact I’m an expert at double bass, and given a few days, I can typically pick up any instrument. Though . . . ever since Oakhurst I’ve stopped playing. Not for any particularly odd reason, I just haven’t had much time, and that town is very draining to any motivation one may have. ‘’
They watched the band before listening to Allen. “Well then there’s plenty of time to learn all the wonderful things about you. I used to play the acoustic guitar- although I stopped a year ago or so before coming to Oakhurst for.. other reasons. I probably wouldn’t have been able to bring it with anyway.” They smiled. “I’d love to hear you play if you ever pick it up again.”
They purred, looping an arm lazily around him. “Maybe we could do a duet if I can scrounge one up.” They looked down at him with a feigned yawn. “All this excitement has me exhausted- maybe we head home for tonight.”
{ He hums, purring at the idea of a duet, though he hisses when they pitch heading home. It’s not that he hates the idea, he just- }
‘’ Noo, I wanna stay with you! I wanna stay outside! I’m tired of being locked away and only being out when someone decides I’m worth the trouble to use . . . ‘’
They flinched a little at the hiss but are more preoccupied with Allen’s words. “What? Allen- you’re your own person- you’re in charge of what you do and where you go. And I will murder anyone who says otherwise.” They pulled him further into them, fronting slightly.
{ He sighs, staring at the floor and all the dirt and dust that it’s begun to house }
‘’ I’m not though . . . not tonight, not for most of my life, not now. Even when I think I’m free, I’m someone’s secret weapon. I’m the king’s, I’m the clockmaker’s- and spirits know I was Adelaide’s for . . . I’m glad she’s gone. She deserved all she got tonight. ‘’
Their gaze hardened with anger. Not at Allen- at everyone who had made him feel this way. They grasped Allen’s face in their hands. “Look at me. You can stop being the king’s pawn. We could run away right now- somewhere they won’t find us. You deserve to have a peaceful life.” They left out the bit about the clockmakers. They didn’t quite understand it- no matter how much he explained it. Perhaps it was just out of their control to grasp.
{ He stares at them, opening his mouth to speak but ends up closing it again. Eventually, he forces his gaze away from their own, though he doesn’t pry off their hands }
‘’ . . . I can’t. I have to save others before they end up like me. Broken. ‘’
They gave a sad smile. “Being broken is okay.” They didn’t deny it. “We’ll be broken together- two halves make a whole right?” They ran a thumb over his cheek. “If.. if that’s what you want, then we’ll do it together. Like in a movie- Allen and Onyx- saving the world.” They chuckled, trying to bring up his mood.
They squeezed his hand. “It’s alright- we’re in it together right?” They chuckled. “The world really better look out for us if we’re banding together- we might be too powerful.”
They cursed goodheartedly under their breath. “Saints save me” They rolled their eyes at Allen. “I suppose I must- if you keep saving my butt like this.”
{ He hums, fixating again on the hourglass, but not on the sand; on the emptiness left behind it }
‘’ It’s an hourglass. A family heirloom of sorts, it helps to manage the powers of a Clockmaker, which is considerably helpful for me seeing as I have no one to teach me how to use said powers thanks to my entire family being massacred . . . ‘’
{ The more he rants, the more his speech seems to slur, but some things can still be made out }
They frowned slightly. “That’s… sort of cool? It’s like a guide?” They chuckled. “Wish I had something like that when I first got turned.” They didn’t quite catch the last bit of the sentence, thoughts a bit scrambled.
{ He taps the glass, body tensing at remembering the elder vampire. He really did hate him, sometimes, no matter how much he tried to set that aside for a clearer perspective }
‘’ Well . . . I mean, c’mon, you saw how he treated Pyro! What he did to Apo, and how dependent he made Shelby, Drift and Avid. He started his own little . . . cult! And he pretends like he’s helping, but he’s not. And- . . . I guess I hate that I see some of myself in him. ‘’
Their hands fidgeted in their lap. “I don’t deny he was horrible- and you are nothing like him. But- Scott’s not my sire” They tilted their head, gaze flicking back to the little hourglass.
It will be quick, and then they can have a good time. That’s what Allen keeps telling himself as he waits just outside the castle. He wouldn’t say it, and you can never really tell, but he’s scared. Terrified, actually. And for good reason. The last time he was given a mission like this, he almost met the same fate as his family. Of course, he was inexperienced and insecure back then. Today he’s prepared. Today, there’s something worth fighting to return to.
—
@onyx-of-oakhurst + anyone else who feels like joining! the setting is a gala (see prev rp starter)
“Hello love” They purred, walking up besides Allen. “You ready to have some fun with this?” They were attempting to not only ease their own nerves about the banquet-but also their lover’s.
They smiled in return, grasping Allen’s hand and they walking into the grand doors. “I’m sure you’ll be great” They whispered to him as they swept a gaze across the already crowded dance floor.
{ He rolled his eyes, searching for that old, wretched face, and thankfully, it wasn’t long before he found it hidden in conversation with other fanciful folk. He purred, turning to press a quick kiss to Onyx’s cheek }
‘’ I sincerely hope you’re right. I’ll be right back, dear. ‘’
{ And with that, his smile fell and his hand broke away from theirs as he disappeared into the crowd, only being seen as he left to the balcony with his old boss joined by arm. One can only wish him luck that he does not get caught a second time }
They watched as he went, but only for a moment as he was soon lost by the crowd. They resigned themselves to simply swaying to the music played by the band.
{ True to his word, it wasn’t long before he was back down from the balcony, with no one else following behind. Despite seeing Onyx clearly, he headed straight for one of the doors to outside, seemingly to catch a breath. As glad that he is that it’s over with, he can’t help but ache and shake, remembering the way the moon caught him again falling someone for another’s gain }
They glanced over at Allen, happy to see that he was alright. A body swiftly moved in from of their gaze, crow black hair swooping in front of their face.
“May I have this dance?”
Something about the figure seemed familiar- ‘Surely it’s not him?! Maybe he won’t remember me. It was a year ago after all.’
They flicked their gaze to the man’s hand, grasping it nervously. “Of course.”
{ Still outside, he wandered the gardens before spotting a bench and sitting down upon it. With a wary glance around the empty garden, his form shifted, with that familiar, bloodied coral resuming its usually unseen position. He closed his eyes briefly, though what happened should’ve been years for any regular folk. Still, within a few seconds he stood and walked again into the ballroom, grabbing a drink only to be caught by a familiar face }
“Allen! There’s my fiery hand! How has the night treated you so far?”
{ The king’s questioning look at his coral didn’t fly past unnoticed, but he didn’t bring it up, either, instead focusing on the conversation ahead, and how to get out of it }
‘’ Wonderful. Just took a trip up to the balcony and the moon was such a marvelous sight. Oh! And these drinks? Splendid. Thank you for informing me which is which. ‘’
They nervously shuffled along the basics of the dance- some old slow folk song they hardly knew. The taller man seemed confident in his movements, perhaps holding on a little too tightly to the vampire’s hands.
“Now what’s a lovely young person like you doing all alone at such a large party like this?”
They swallowed, avoiding eye contact with the man. “Oh, you know how it goes-just out for a friendly bit of dancing and maybe some drinks.” They thought maybe it wouldn’t be wise to mention Allen to the man.
{ The king smiled, nodding to acknowledge the secret phrase exchanged. Though, his smile dimmed when he recalled how Allen typically is after a job }
“Don’t suppose you’ll be sticking around much longer?”
{ At that, a crooked smile crossed Allen’s face as he pulled a miniature hourglass out of a hidden pocket. He twirled it back and forth, eyes focused on it before they snap up to the crown }
‘’ Ohhh noooo, I think I’ll be around a moment longer. Can’t let the night go to waste, now, can we? ‘’
{ Before another word can be spoken, the king is pulled off into a conversation with some up-starts while Allen shifts his focus to the search of the ballroom, temptations nagging at the back of his mind }
The song finally came to an end and Onyx was more than happy to step back when the man tightened his grip on their arm.
“Oh, another dance please. I insist.”
They froze, reluctantly following his footsteps to the next song. ‘It’s fear’ they told themselves as they danced ‘surely it’s just fear. That’s normal’ They caught a glimpse of his eyes behind his hair- blood red. ‘It’s him’ the realization dawned on them as they fought to take unneeded breaths.
{ He circled around the dance floor, giving and accepting short dance requests before coming upon Onyx and their odd pair. Though, he walked away quickly enough, only to join the band on stage and switch with the current bass player, who clearly needed a breather. With a charming smile and easy attitude, Allen convinces the band to all take a break, promising that he’ll watch over their instruments while they get a drink. And with that, the music goes on an eerie pause, the only sound being the gentle tapping of sand in his hourglass as it makes contact with the bottom }
They could not have been more grateful for the lull in music as they quickly scrambled backwards from him. “St-stay away from me!” They hissed, trying to disappear into the crowd.
“Oh come on love, I’m not doing any harm. Let’s just put the past in the past Onyx.”
They shook their head frantically. “I said stay away Corvin!” They shrieked, spotting Allen on the stage. ‘Oh thank the saints’ They weaved in between people, heading for the stage as fast as they could- most likely with their former side pursuing.
{ The entire commotion doesn’t fall on empty ears. In fact, Allen’s quick to lay the bass in its case as he heads towards the end of the stage, picking Onyx up and urging them to take his previous seat as he faces the oh-so aggressively average man }
‘’ Do you have a problem, sir? I promise, the band will be making their return very soon. In the meantime, I’m taking requests. Do you have any? ‘’
Onyx sat down heavily, eyes wide and frightened before they watched Allen handle it. Honestly- they should be more concerned for Allen right now but they were too wrapped up in their panic. They heard the conversation between the two.
“No problems here. Just catching up with an old acquaintance. I’ll wait for the band to come back.”
Corvin’s voice was as silky smooth as before- it sent shivers down their spine.
{ He purrs, tilting his head to the side thoughtfully }
‘’ Ohh, but I’m not sure that your ‘old acquaintance’ wants to catch up with you. ‘’
{ He snaps his fingers, as if finally catching an idea }
‘’ Tell you what, how about I tell your fortune for you, huh? I’m quite knowledgeable like that. Let’s see . . . ‘’
{ It’s a hidden movement as he reaches behind for the hourglass, which spins around before shifting into a diamond blade, warped by ocean tides and wrapped in coral. Infused in it is decorative iron used to be reminiscent of the stars, but now, it serves a purpose as Allen points it straight at Corvin’s throat }
‘’ . . . I think that you’ll leave this town for good if you want to keep not only your head, but also those that you need. After all, I’m not above a little massacre, it’s what I do, and I’ve been craving it all night. ‘’
Onyx’s eyes widened as they saw Allen pull the knife before gawking at the out of character response from Corvin.
“Woah now darling, let’s calm down. I’ll just leave and you lot can continue your night in peace.”
Corvin held his hands up warily, taking a half step back, something odd flickering in his eyes. Surely he wasnt scared right? Onyx had lived personally maybe too personally with this man for over a year and never seen him scared. They stood and walked up behind Allen with newfound confidence at his lover’s approach.
Onyx bared their unusually sharp teeth at Corvin. “You heard him.” They snapped, confident at Allen’s side.
They watched as Corvin gave a low growl before sulking off into the crowd. As soon as he disappeared, Onyx let out an unneeded shaky breath. “Thank you.”
{ He nods, twirling the blade back into an hourglass before he grabs their hand and pulls them backstage. Even when they’re hidden by the curtains—out of all prying eyes—he refuses to let go of their hand }
‘’ Are you okay? Holy- Onyx, do I need to go after him? I will! It’s tempting, believe me. I was not joking about all that, I will become the Owen of this town if I must . . . oh, my love . . . ‘’
{ He reaches his other hand to cup their cheek, gently rubbing his thumb across it. All confidence that he portrayed is melted away to reveal something softer; duller despite its broken edges }
Their eyes were slightly frantic as they subconsciously leaned into his hand. “I-uh maybe? I do-don’t know. I’m sorry. I’m really sorry.” They shut their eyes, trying to take stuttering breaths to calm themselves down.
{ He doesn’t wait much of a second, searching their face for any cues before pulling them into a hug. He moves his hands to wrap around them, gently rubbing their back }
‘’ It’s not your fault. There’s no need to be sorry. I’m sorry you have to deal with him. No one deserves that. You’re okay now. You’re safe. Just breathe. ‘’
They nuzzled into the nook of Allen’s shoulder. Their breaths eventually evened out until they stopped entirely. Maybe their body was actually calm now. They pulled back a bit, still staying in Allen’s arms. It was comforting. “Sorry, you shouldn’t have to deal with this too- I know tonight was already stressful for you. I mean- what are the chances he just happens to show up at the same gala and dance with me…”
They smiled at the kiss, nodding slowly. “If you’re sure…” they were a bit uncertain about that. “You’re hot when you’re threatening.” They teased, trying to take their mind off of the fact that Corbin knew more than they were comfortable with about where they were, why they looked like now, and… Allen.
{ He smiles only briefly before their tease registered, and his face grew red in an instant. Immediately he covers his face with his hands, whining at his current circumstances }
‘’ Don’t say that . . . I’m not! There’s nothing hot about that! . . . I don’t need people figuring out a new way to tease me. ‘’
They smiled, flicking his nose with a finger as they lifted one of his hands up. “It is! It’s nice to know someone is there to protect me in such a threatening manner.” They purred at Allen’s red face. oh how the turns have tabled.
{ He only flustered even more, lowering his other hand, though he still doesn’t meet their gaze }
‘’ I hate you . . . ‘’
{ After a second, he kisses them, pulling away with the light dragging of his fangs on their lower lip, hoping despite himself that maybe it’ll stop the teasing for a bit }
They purred, flashing a toothy grin at him. “Sure you do.” They leaned back in again, anxiety temporarily diminished with Allen. They leaned into the kiss before pulling back. “How long is the band away for?”
They shook their head. “I’m fine with it- they might be a little spooked to see two strangers backstage.” They didn’t really want to dance right now- it seemed too recent from earlier. “Maybe we go and get something to drink?”
{ Soon enough, they reach the table, and he lets go of their hand to take one of the bottles and drink . . . but he almost immediately slams the bottle down again, wary of the taste reminding them of that body- . . . is she still up there? Spirits, he really is like Pyro . . . }
They stood at the table, connecting some of the dots between Allen’s reaction and the bits of fired blood speckling his mouth. “Here,” they extended their wrist to him. “It’ll taste different.”
{ His eyes widen at their offering, though it’s not long before he inevitably sinks his teeth into it. Thankfully, it does taste different. In fact, it tastes much better than any others he’s tried in a long time . . . but he has to pull away. Both for his reputation and to keep his lover semiconscious }
They nodded, sitting down to combat the minor dizziness. “Of course love.” They reached out with their other hand, grabbing the bottle and taking a swig. “Send my thanks to the king- this is pretty good.”
{ He nods, licking the remaining blood from his lips as he grabs a chair to sit next to them in. He takes their wrist in his hand, gently rubbing his thumb over the wound before lifting it up to his mouth a pressing a kiss to it before letting it fall to their side again }
The purred at the movement. “Kisses make everything better right?” They chuckled a bit, watching the band come back to the stage. “How did you end up on stage? I didn’t know you played.”
{ He hums, smiling just a smidge as he watches the band pick up their instruments. The bass player waves at him, and he does so as well before turning to face Onyx better }
‘’ There’s a lot of things you don’t know about me, dove. I do know how to play, in fact I’m an expert at double bass, and given a few days, I can typically pick up any instrument. Though . . . ever since Oakhurst I’ve stopped playing. Not for any particularly odd reason, I just haven’t had much time, and that town is very draining to any motivation one may have. ‘’
They watched the band before listening to Allen. “Well then there’s plenty of time to learn all the wonderful things about you. I used to play the acoustic guitar- although I stopped a year ago or so before coming to Oakhurst for.. other reasons. I probably wouldn’t have been able to bring it with anyway.” They smiled. “I’d love to hear you play if you ever pick it up again.”
They purred, looping an arm lazily around him. “Maybe we could do a duet if I can scrounge one up.” They looked down at him with a feigned yawn. “All this excitement has me exhausted- maybe we head home for tonight.”
{ He hums, purring at the idea of a duet, though he hisses when they pitch heading home. It’s not that he hates the idea, he just- }
‘’ Noo, I wanna stay with you! I wanna stay outside! I’m tired of being locked away and only being out when someone decides I’m worth the trouble to use . . . ‘’
They flinched a little at the hiss but are more preoccupied with Allen’s words. “What? Allen- you’re your own person- you’re in charge of what you do and where you go. And I will murder anyone who says otherwise.” They pulled him further into them, fronting slightly.
{ He sighs, staring at the floor and all the dirt and dust that it’s begun to house }
‘’ I’m not though . . . not tonight, not for most of my life, not now. Even when I think I’m free, I’m someone’s secret weapon. I’m the king’s, I’m the clockmaker’s- and spirits know I was Adelaide’s for . . . I’m glad she’s gone. She deserved all she got tonight. ‘’
Their gaze hardened with anger. Not at Allen- at everyone who had made him feel this way. They grasped Allen’s face in their hands. “Look at me. You can stop being the king’s pawn. We could run away right now- somewhere they won’t find us. You deserve to have a peaceful life.” They left out the bit about the clockmakers. They didn’t quite understand it- no matter how much he explained it. Perhaps it was just out of their control to grasp.
{ He stares at them, opening his mouth to speak but ends up closing it again. Eventually, he forces his gaze away from their own, though he doesn’t pry off their hands }
‘’ . . . I can’t. I have to save others before they end up like me. Broken. ‘’
They gave a sad smile. “Being broken is okay.” They didn’t deny it. “We’ll be broken together- two halves make a whole right?” They ran a thumb over his cheek. “If.. if that’s what you want, then we’ll do it together. Like in a movie- Allen and Onyx- saving the world.” They chuckled, trying to bring up his mood.
They squeezed his hand. “It’s alright- we’re in it together right?” They chuckled. “The world really better look out for us if we’re banding together- we might be too powerful.”
They cursed goodheartedly under their breath. “Saints save me” They rolled their eyes at Allen. “I suppose I must- if you keep saving my butt like this.”
{ He hums, fixating again on the hourglass, but not on the sand; on the emptiness left behind it }
‘’ It’s an hourglass. A family heirloom of sorts, it helps to manage the powers of a Clockmaker, which is considerably helpful for me seeing as I have no one to teach me how to use said powers thanks to my entire family being massacred . . . ‘’
{ The more he rants, the more his speech seems to slur, but some things can still be made out }
They frowned slightly. “That’s… sort of cool? It’s like a guide?” They chuckled. “Wish I had something like that when I first got turned.” They didn’t quite catch the last bit of the sentence, thoughts a bit scrambled.
{ He taps the glass, body tensing at remembering the elder vampire. He really did hate him, sometimes, no matter how much he tried to set that aside for a clearer perspective }
‘’ Well . . . I mean, c’mon, you saw how he treated Pyro! What he did to Apo, and how dependent he made Shelby, Drift and Avid. He started his own little . . . cult! And he pretends like he’s helping, but he’s not. And- . . . I guess I hate that I see some of myself in him. ‘’
Their hands fidgeted in their lap. “I don’t deny he was horrible- and you are nothing like him. But- Scott’s not my sire” They tilted their head, gaze flicking back to the little hourglass.
It will be quick, and then they can have a good time. That’s what Allen keeps telling himself as he waits just outside the castle. He wouldn’t say it, and you can never really tell, but he’s scared. Terrified, actually. And for good reason. The last time he was given a mission like this, he almost met the same fate as his family. Of course, he was inexperienced and insecure back then. Today he’s prepared. Today, there’s something worth fighting to return to.
—
@onyx-of-oakhurst + anyone else who feels like joining! the setting is a gala (see prev rp starter)
“Hello love” They purred, walking up besides Allen. “You ready to have some fun with this?” They were attempting to not only ease their own nerves about the banquet-but also their lover’s.
They smiled in return, grasping Allen’s hand and they walking into the grand doors. “I’m sure you’ll be great” They whispered to him as they swept a gaze across the already crowded dance floor.
{ He rolled his eyes, searching for that old, wretched face, and thankfully, it wasn’t long before he found it hidden in conversation with other fanciful folk. He purred, turning to press a quick kiss to Onyx’s cheek }
‘’ I sincerely hope you’re right. I’ll be right back, dear. ‘’
{ And with that, his smile fell and his hand broke away from theirs as he disappeared into the crowd, only being seen as he left to the balcony with his old boss joined by arm. One can only wish him luck that he does not get caught a second time }
They watched as he went, but only for a moment as he was soon lost by the crowd. They resigned themselves to simply swaying to the music played by the band.
{ True to his word, it wasn’t long before he was back down from the balcony, with no one else following behind. Despite seeing Onyx clearly, he headed straight for one of the doors to outside, seemingly to catch a breath. As glad that he is that it’s over with, he can’t help but ache and shake, remembering the way the moon caught him again falling someone for another’s gain }
They glanced over at Allen, happy to see that he was alright. A body swiftly moved in from of their gaze, crow black hair swooping in front of their face.
“May I have this dance?”
Something about the figure seemed familiar- ‘Surely it’s not him?! Maybe he won’t remember me. It was a year ago after all.’
They flicked their gaze to the man’s hand, grasping it nervously. “Of course.”
{ Still outside, he wandered the gardens before spotting a bench and sitting down upon it. With a wary glance around the empty garden, his form shifted, with that familiar, bloodied coral resuming its usually unseen position. He closed his eyes briefly, though what happened should’ve been years for any regular folk. Still, within a few seconds he stood and walked again into the ballroom, grabbing a drink only to be caught by a familiar face }
“Allen! There’s my fiery hand! How has the night treated you so far?”
{ The king’s questioning look at his coral didn’t fly past unnoticed, but he didn’t bring it up, either, instead focusing on the conversation ahead, and how to get out of it }
‘’ Wonderful. Just took a trip up to the balcony and the moon was such a marvelous sight. Oh! And these drinks? Splendid. Thank you for informing me which is which. ‘’
They nervously shuffled along the basics of the dance- some old slow folk song they hardly knew. The taller man seemed confident in his movements, perhaps holding on a little too tightly to the vampire’s hands.
“Now what’s a lovely young person like you doing all alone at such a large party like this?”
They swallowed, avoiding eye contact with the man. “Oh, you know how it goes-just out for a friendly bit of dancing and maybe some drinks.” They thought maybe it wouldn’t be wise to mention Allen to the man.
{ The king smiled, nodding to acknowledge the secret phrase exchanged. Though, his smile dimmed when he recalled how Allen typically is after a job }
“Don’t suppose you’ll be sticking around much longer?”
{ At that, a crooked smile crossed Allen’s face as he pulled a miniature hourglass out of a hidden pocket. He twirled it back and forth, eyes focused on it before they snap up to the crown }
‘’ Ohhh noooo, I think I’ll be around a moment longer. Can’t let the night go to waste, now, can we? ‘’
{ Before another word can be spoken, the king is pulled off into a conversation with some up-starts while Allen shifts his focus to the search of the ballroom, temptations nagging at the back of his mind }
The song finally came to an end and Onyx was more than happy to step back when the man tightened his grip on their arm.
“Oh, another dance please. I insist.”
They froze, reluctantly following his footsteps to the next song. ‘It’s fear’ they told themselves as they danced ‘surely it’s just fear. That’s normal’ They caught a glimpse of his eyes behind his hair- blood red. ‘It’s him’ the realization dawned on them as they fought to take unneeded breaths.
{ He circled around the dance floor, giving and accepting short dance requests before coming upon Onyx and their odd pair. Though, he walked away quickly enough, only to join the band on stage and switch with the current bass player, who clearly needed a breather. With a charming smile and easy attitude, Allen convinces the band to all take a break, promising that he’ll watch over their instruments while they get a drink. And with that, the music goes on an eerie pause, the only sound being the gentle tapping of sand in his hourglass as it makes contact with the bottom }
They could not have been more grateful for the lull in music as they quickly scrambled backwards from him. “St-stay away from me!” They hissed, trying to disappear into the crowd.
“Oh come on love, I’m not doing any harm. Let’s just put the past in the past Onyx.”
They shook their head frantically. “I said stay away Corvin!” They shrieked, spotting Allen on the stage. ‘Oh thank the saints’ They weaved in between people, heading for the stage as fast as they could- most likely with their former side pursuing.
{ The entire commotion doesn’t fall on empty ears. In fact, Allen’s quick to lay the bass in its case as he heads towards the end of the stage, picking Onyx up and urging them to take his previous seat as he faces the oh-so aggressively average man }
‘’ Do you have a problem, sir? I promise, the band will be making their return very soon. In the meantime, I’m taking requests. Do you have any? ‘’
Onyx sat down heavily, eyes wide and frightened before they watched Allen handle it. Honestly- they should be more concerned for Allen right now but they were too wrapped up in their panic. They heard the conversation between the two.
“No problems here. Just catching up with an old acquaintance. I’ll wait for the band to come back.”
Corvin’s voice was as silky smooth as before- it sent shivers down their spine.
{ He purrs, tilting his head to the side thoughtfully }
‘’ Ohh, but I’m not sure that your ‘old acquaintance’ wants to catch up with you. ‘’
{ He snaps his fingers, as if finally catching an idea }
‘’ Tell you what, how about I tell your fortune for you, huh? I’m quite knowledgeable like that. Let’s see . . . ‘’
{ It’s a hidden movement as he reaches behind for the hourglass, which spins around before shifting into a diamond blade, warped by ocean tides and wrapped in coral. Infused in it is decorative iron used to be reminiscent of the stars, but now, it serves a purpose as Allen points it straight at Corvin’s throat }
‘’ . . . I think that you’ll leave this town for good if you want to keep not only your head, but also those that you need. After all, I’m not above a little massacre, it’s what I do, and I’ve been craving it all night. ‘’
Onyx’s eyes widened as they saw Allen pull the knife before gawking at the out of character response from Corvin.
“Woah now darling, let’s calm down. I’ll just leave and you lot can continue your night in peace.”
Corvin held his hands up warily, taking a half step back, something odd flickering in his eyes. Surely he wasnt scared right? Onyx had lived personally maybe too personally with this man for over a year and never seen him scared. They stood and walked up behind Allen with newfound confidence at his lover’s approach.
Onyx bared their unusually sharp teeth at Corvin. “You heard him.” They snapped, confident at Allen’s side.
They watched as Corvin gave a low growl before sulking off into the crowd. As soon as he disappeared, Onyx let out an unneeded shaky breath. “Thank you.”
{ He nods, twirling the blade back into an hourglass before he grabs their hand and pulls them backstage. Even when they’re hidden by the curtains—out of all prying eyes—he refuses to let go of their hand }
‘’ Are you okay? Holy- Onyx, do I need to go after him? I will! It’s tempting, believe me. I was not joking about all that, I will become the Owen of this town if I must . . . oh, my love . . . ‘’
{ He reaches his other hand to cup their cheek, gently rubbing his thumb across it. All confidence that he portrayed is melted away to reveal something softer; duller despite its broken edges }
Their eyes were slightly frantic as they subconsciously leaned into his hand. “I-uh maybe? I do-don’t know. I’m sorry. I’m really sorry.” They shut their eyes, trying to take stuttering breaths to calm themselves down.
{ He doesn’t wait much of a second, searching their face for any cues before pulling them into a hug. He moves his hands to wrap around them, gently rubbing their back }
‘’ It’s not your fault. There’s no need to be sorry. I’m sorry you have to deal with him. No one deserves that. You’re okay now. You’re safe. Just breathe. ‘’
They nuzzled into the nook of Allen’s shoulder. Their breaths eventually evened out until they stopped entirely. Maybe their body was actually calm now. They pulled back a bit, still staying in Allen’s arms. It was comforting. “Sorry, you shouldn’t have to deal with this too- I know tonight was already stressful for you. I mean- what are the chances he just happens to show up at the same gala and dance with me…”
They smiled at the kiss, nodding slowly. “If you’re sure…” they were a bit uncertain about that. “You’re hot when you’re threatening.” They teased, trying to take their mind off of the fact that Corbin knew more than they were comfortable with about where they were, why they looked like now, and… Allen.
{ He smiles only briefly before their tease registered, and his face grew red in an instant. Immediately he covers his face with his hands, whining at his current circumstances }
‘’ Don’t say that . . . I’m not! There’s nothing hot about that! . . . I don’t need people figuring out a new way to tease me. ‘’
They smiled, flicking his nose with a finger as they lifted one of his hands up. “It is! It’s nice to know someone is there to protect me in such a threatening manner.” They purred at Allen’s red face. oh how the turns have tabled.
{ He only flustered even more, lowering his other hand, though he still doesn’t meet their gaze }
‘’ I hate you . . . ‘’
{ After a second, he kisses them, pulling away with the light dragging of his fangs on their lower lip, hoping despite himself that maybe it’ll stop the teasing for a bit }
They purred, flashing a toothy grin at him. “Sure you do.” They leaned back in again, anxiety temporarily diminished with Allen. They leaned into the kiss before pulling back. “How long is the band away for?”
They shook their head. “I’m fine with it- they might be a little spooked to see two strangers backstage.” They didn’t really want to dance right now- it seemed too recent from earlier. “Maybe we go and get something to drink?”
{ Soon enough, they reach the table, and he lets go of their hand to take one of the bottles and drink . . . but he almost immediately slams the bottle down again, wary of the taste reminding them of that body- . . . is she still up there? Spirits, he really is like Pyro . . . }
They stood at the table, connecting some of the dots between Allen’s reaction and the bits of fired blood speckling his mouth. “Here,” they extended their wrist to him. “It’ll taste different.”
{ His eyes widen at their offering, though it’s not long before he inevitably sinks his teeth into it. Thankfully, it does taste different. In fact, it tastes much better than any others he’s tried in a long time . . . but he has to pull away. Both for his reputation and to keep his lover semiconscious }
They nodded, sitting down to combat the minor dizziness. “Of course love.” They reached out with their other hand, grabbing the bottle and taking a swig. “Send my thanks to the king- this is pretty good.”
{ He nods, licking the remaining blood from his lips as he grabs a chair to sit next to them in. He takes their wrist in his hand, gently rubbing his thumb over the wound before lifting it up to his mouth a pressing a kiss to it before letting it fall to their side again }
The purred at the movement. “Kisses make everything better right?” They chuckled a bit, watching the band come back to the stage. “How did you end up on stage? I didn’t know you played.”
{ He hums, smiling just a smidge as he watches the band pick up their instruments. The bass player waves at him, and he does so as well before turning to face Onyx better }
‘’ There’s a lot of things you don’t know about me, dove. I do know how to play, in fact I’m an expert at double bass, and given a few days, I can typically pick up any instrument. Though . . . ever since Oakhurst I’ve stopped playing. Not for any particularly odd reason, I just haven’t had much time, and that town is very draining to any motivation one may have. ‘’
They watched the band before listening to Allen. “Well then there’s plenty of time to learn all the wonderful things about you. I used to play the acoustic guitar- although I stopped a year ago or so before coming to Oakhurst for.. other reasons. I probably wouldn’t have been able to bring it with anyway.” They smiled. “I’d love to hear you play if you ever pick it up again.”
They purred, looping an arm lazily around him. “Maybe we could do a duet if I can scrounge one up.” They looked down at him with a feigned yawn. “All this excitement has me exhausted- maybe we head home for tonight.”
{ He hums, purring at the idea of a duet, though he hisses when they pitch heading home. It’s not that he hates the idea, he just- }
‘’ Noo, I wanna stay with you! I wanna stay outside! I’m tired of being locked away and only being out when someone decides I’m worth the trouble to use . . . ‘’
They flinched a little at the hiss but are more preoccupied with Allen’s words. “What? Allen- you’re your own person- you’re in charge of what you do and where you go. And I will murder anyone who says otherwise.” They pulled him further into them, fronting slightly.
{ He sighs, staring at the floor and all the dirt and dust that it’s begun to house }
‘’ I’m not though . . . not tonight, not for most of my life, not now. Even when I think I’m free, I’m someone’s secret weapon. I’m the king’s, I’m the clockmaker’s- and spirits know I was Adelaide’s for . . . I’m glad she’s gone. She deserved all she got tonight. ‘’
Their gaze hardened with anger. Not at Allen- at everyone who had made him feel this way. They grasped Allen’s face in their hands. “Look at me. You can stop being the king’s pawn. We could run away right now- somewhere they won’t find us. You deserve to have a peaceful life.” They left out the bit about the clockmakers. They didn’t quite understand it- no matter how much he explained it. Perhaps it was just out of their control to grasp.
{ He stares at them, opening his mouth to speak but ends up closing it again. Eventually, he forces his gaze away from their own, though he doesn’t pry off their hands }
‘’ . . . I can’t. I have to save others before they end up like me. Broken. ‘’
They gave a sad smile. “Being broken is okay.” They didn’t deny it. “We’ll be broken together- two halves make a whole right?” They ran a thumb over his cheek. “If.. if that’s what you want, then we’ll do it together. Like in a movie- Allen and Onyx- saving the world.” They chuckled, trying to bring up his mood.
They squeezed his hand. “It’s alright- we’re in it together right?” They chuckled. “The world really better look out for us if we’re banding together- we might be too powerful.”
They cursed goodheartedly under their breath. “Saints save me” They rolled their eyes at Allen. “I suppose I must- if you keep saving my butt like this.”
{ He hums, fixating again on the hourglass, but not on the sand; on the emptiness left behind it }
‘’ It’s an hourglass. A family heirloom of sorts, it helps to manage the powers of a Clockmaker, which is considerably helpful for me seeing as I have no one to teach me how to use said powers thanks to my entire family being massacred . . . ‘’
{ The more he rants, the more his speech seems to slur, but some things can still be made out }
They frowned slightly. “That’s… sort of cool? It’s like a guide?” They chuckled. “Wish I had something like that when I first got turned.” They didn’t quite catch the last bit of the sentence, thoughts a bit scrambled.
{ He taps the glass, body tensing at remembering the elder vampire. He really did hate him, sometimes, no matter how much he tried to set that aside for a clearer perspective }
‘’ Well . . . I mean, c’mon, you saw how he treated Pyro! What he did to Apo, and how dependent he made Shelby, Drift and Avid. He started his own little . . . cult! And he pretends like he’s helping, but he’s not. And- . . . I guess I hate that I see some of myself in him. ‘’
It will be quick, and then they can have a good time. That’s what Allen keeps telling himself as he waits just outside the castle. He wouldn’t say it, and you can never really tell, but he’s scared. Terrified, actually. And for good reason. The last time he was given a mission like this, he almost met the same fate as his family. Of course, he was inexperienced and insecure back then. Today he’s prepared. Today, there’s something worth fighting to return to.
—
@onyx-of-oakhurst + anyone else who feels like joining! the setting is a gala (see prev rp starter)
“Hello love” They purred, walking up besides Allen. “You ready to have some fun with this?” They were attempting to not only ease their own nerves about the banquet-but also their lover’s.
They smiled in return, grasping Allen’s hand and they walking into the grand doors. “I’m sure you’ll be great” They whispered to him as they swept a gaze across the already crowded dance floor.
{ He rolled his eyes, searching for that old, wretched face, and thankfully, it wasn’t long before he found it hidden in conversation with other fanciful folk. He purred, turning to press a quick kiss to Onyx’s cheek }
‘’ I sincerely hope you’re right. I’ll be right back, dear. ‘’
{ And with that, his smile fell and his hand broke away from theirs as he disappeared into the crowd, only being seen as he left to the balcony with his old boss joined by arm. One can only wish him luck that he does not get caught a second time }
They watched as he went, but only for a moment as he was soon lost by the crowd. They resigned themselves to simply swaying to the music played by the band.
{ True to his word, it wasn’t long before he was back down from the balcony, with no one else following behind. Despite seeing Onyx clearly, he headed straight for one of the doors to outside, seemingly to catch a breath. As glad that he is that it’s over with, he can’t help but ache and shake, remembering the way the moon caught him again falling someone for another’s gain }
They glanced over at Allen, happy to see that he was alright. A body swiftly moved in from of their gaze, crow black hair swooping in front of their face.
“May I have this dance?”
Something about the figure seemed familiar- ‘Surely it’s not him?! Maybe he won’t remember me. It was a year ago after all.’
They flicked their gaze to the man’s hand, grasping it nervously. “Of course.”
{ Still outside, he wandered the gardens before spotting a bench and sitting down upon it. With a wary glance around the empty garden, his form shifted, with that familiar, bloodied coral resuming its usually unseen position. He closed his eyes briefly, though what happened should’ve been years for any regular folk. Still, within a few seconds he stood and walked again into the ballroom, grabbing a drink only to be caught by a familiar face }
“Allen! There’s my fiery hand! How has the night treated you so far?”
{ The king’s questioning look at his coral didn’t fly past unnoticed, but he didn’t bring it up, either, instead focusing on the conversation ahead, and how to get out of it }
‘’ Wonderful. Just took a trip up to the balcony and the moon was such a marvelous sight. Oh! And these drinks? Splendid. Thank you for informing me which is which. ‘’
They nervously shuffled along the basics of the dance- some old slow folk song they hardly knew. The taller man seemed confident in his movements, perhaps holding on a little too tightly to the vampire’s hands.
“Now what’s a lovely young person like you doing all alone at such a large party like this?”
They swallowed, avoiding eye contact with the man. “Oh, you know how it goes-just out for a friendly bit of dancing and maybe some drinks.” They thought maybe it wouldn’t be wise to mention Allen to the man.
{ The king smiled, nodding to acknowledge the secret phrase exchanged. Though, his smile dimmed when he recalled how Allen typically is after a job }
“Don’t suppose you’ll be sticking around much longer?”
{ At that, a crooked smile crossed Allen’s face as he pulled a miniature hourglass out of a hidden pocket. He twirled it back and forth, eyes focused on it before they snap up to the crown }
‘’ Ohhh noooo, I think I’ll be around a moment longer. Can’t let the night go to waste, now, can we? ‘’
{ Before another word can be spoken, the king is pulled off into a conversation with some up-starts while Allen shifts his focus to the search of the ballroom, temptations nagging at the back of his mind }
The song finally came to an end and Onyx was more than happy to step back when the man tightened his grip on their arm.
“Oh, another dance please. I insist.”
They froze, reluctantly following his footsteps to the next song. ‘It’s fear’ they told themselves as they danced ‘surely it’s just fear. That’s normal’ They caught a glimpse of his eyes behind his hair- blood red. ‘It’s him’ the realization dawned on them as they fought to take unneeded breaths.
{ He circled around the dance floor, giving and accepting short dance requests before coming upon Onyx and their odd pair. Though, he walked away quickly enough, only to join the band on stage and switch with the current bass player, who clearly needed a breather. With a charming smile and easy attitude, Allen convinces the band to all take a break, promising that he’ll watch over their instruments while they get a drink. And with that, the music goes on an eerie pause, the only sound being the gentle tapping of sand in his hourglass as it makes contact with the bottom }
They could not have been more grateful for the lull in music as they quickly scrambled backwards from him. “St-stay away from me!” They hissed, trying to disappear into the crowd.
“Oh come on love, I’m not doing any harm. Let’s just put the past in the past Onyx.”
They shook their head frantically. “I said stay away Corvin!” They shrieked, spotting Allen on the stage. ‘Oh thank the saints’ They weaved in between people, heading for the stage as fast as they could- most likely with their former side pursuing.
{ The entire commotion doesn’t fall on empty ears. In fact, Allen’s quick to lay the bass in its case as he heads towards the end of the stage, picking Onyx up and urging them to take his previous seat as he faces the oh-so aggressively average man }
‘’ Do you have a problem, sir? I promise, the band will be making their return very soon. In the meantime, I’m taking requests. Do you have any? ‘’
Onyx sat down heavily, eyes wide and frightened before they watched Allen handle it. Honestly- they should be more concerned for Allen right now but they were too wrapped up in their panic. They heard the conversation between the two.
“No problems here. Just catching up with an old acquaintance. I’ll wait for the band to come back.”
Corvin’s voice was as silky smooth as before- it sent shivers down their spine.
{ He purrs, tilting his head to the side thoughtfully }
‘’ Ohh, but I’m not sure that your ‘old acquaintance’ wants to catch up with you. ‘’
{ He snaps his fingers, as if finally catching an idea }
‘’ Tell you what, how about I tell your fortune for you, huh? I’m quite knowledgeable like that. Let’s see . . . ‘’
{ It’s a hidden movement as he reaches behind for the hourglass, which spins around before shifting into a diamond blade, warped by ocean tides and wrapped in coral. Infused in it is decorative iron used to be reminiscent of the stars, but now, it serves a purpose as Allen points it straight at Corvin’s throat }
‘’ . . . I think that you’ll leave this town for good if you want to keep not only your head, but also those that you need. After all, I’m not above a little massacre, it’s what I do, and I’ve been craving it all night. ‘’
Onyx’s eyes widened as they saw Allen pull the knife before gawking at the out of character response from Corvin.
“Woah now darling, let’s calm down. I’ll just leave and you lot can continue your night in peace.”
Corvin held his hands up warily, taking a half step back, something odd flickering in his eyes. Surely he wasnt scared right? Onyx had lived personally maybe too personally with this man for over a year and never seen him scared. They stood and walked up behind Allen with newfound confidence at his lover’s approach.
Onyx bared their unusually sharp teeth at Corvin. “You heard him.” They snapped, confident at Allen’s side.
They watched as Corvin gave a low growl before sulking off into the crowd. As soon as he disappeared, Onyx let out an unneeded shaky breath. “Thank you.”
{ He nods, twirling the blade back into an hourglass before he grabs their hand and pulls them backstage. Even when they’re hidden by the curtains—out of all prying eyes—he refuses to let go of their hand }
‘’ Are you okay? Holy- Onyx, do I need to go after him? I will! It’s tempting, believe me. I was not joking about all that, I will become the Owen of this town if I must . . . oh, my love . . . ‘’
{ He reaches his other hand to cup their cheek, gently rubbing his thumb across it. All confidence that he portrayed is melted away to reveal something softer; duller despite its broken edges }
Their eyes were slightly frantic as they subconsciously leaned into his hand. “I-uh maybe? I do-don’t know. I’m sorry. I’m really sorry.” They shut their eyes, trying to take stuttering breaths to calm themselves down.
{ He doesn’t wait much of a second, searching their face for any cues before pulling them into a hug. He moves his hands to wrap around them, gently rubbing their back }
‘’ It’s not your fault. There’s no need to be sorry. I’m sorry you have to deal with him. No one deserves that. You’re okay now. You’re safe. Just breathe. ‘’
They nuzzled into the nook of Allen’s shoulder. Their breaths eventually evened out until they stopped entirely. Maybe their body was actually calm now. They pulled back a bit, still staying in Allen’s arms. It was comforting. “Sorry, you shouldn’t have to deal with this too- I know tonight was already stressful for you. I mean- what are the chances he just happens to show up at the same gala and dance with me…”
They smiled at the kiss, nodding slowly. “If you’re sure…” they were a bit uncertain about that. “You’re hot when you’re threatening.” They teased, trying to take their mind off of the fact that Corbin knew more than they were comfortable with about where they were, why they looked like now, and… Allen.
{ He smiles only briefly before their tease registered, and his face grew red in an instant. Immediately he covers his face with his hands, whining at his current circumstances }
‘’ Don’t say that . . . I’m not! There’s nothing hot about that! . . . I don’t need people figuring out a new way to tease me. ‘’
They smiled, flicking his nose with a finger as they lifted one of his hands up. “It is! It’s nice to know someone is there to protect me in such a threatening manner.” They purred at Allen’s red face. oh how the turns have tabled.
{ He only flustered even more, lowering his other hand, though he still doesn’t meet their gaze }
‘’ I hate you . . . ‘’
{ After a second, he kisses them, pulling away with the light dragging of his fangs on their lower lip, hoping despite himself that maybe it’ll stop the teasing for a bit }
They purred, flashing a toothy grin at him. “Sure you do.” They leaned back in again, anxiety temporarily diminished with Allen. They leaned into the kiss before pulling back. “How long is the band away for?”
They shook their head. “I’m fine with it- they might be a little spooked to see two strangers backstage.” They didn’t really want to dance right now- it seemed too recent from earlier. “Maybe we go and get something to drink?”
{ Soon enough, they reach the table, and he lets go of their hand to take one of the bottles and drink . . . but he almost immediately slams the bottle down again, wary of the taste reminding them of that body- . . . is she still up there? Spirits, he really is like Pyro . . . }
They stood at the table, connecting some of the dots between Allen’s reaction and the bits of fired blood speckling his mouth. “Here,” they extended their wrist to him. “It’ll taste different.”
{ His eyes widen at their offering, though it’s not long before he inevitably sinks his teeth into it. Thankfully, it does taste different. In fact, it tastes much better than any others he’s tried in a long time . . . but he has to pull away. Both for his reputation and to keep his lover semiconscious }
They nodded, sitting down to combat the minor dizziness. “Of course love.” They reached out with their other hand, grabbing the bottle and taking a swig. “Send my thanks to the king- this is pretty good.”
{ He nods, licking the remaining blood from his lips as he grabs a chair to sit next to them in. He takes their wrist in his hand, gently rubbing his thumb over the wound before lifting it up to his mouth a pressing a kiss to it before letting it fall to their side again }
The purred at the movement. “Kisses make everything better right?” They chuckled a bit, watching the band come back to the stage. “How did you end up on stage? I didn’t know you played.”
{ He hums, smiling just a smidge as he watches the band pick up their instruments. The bass player waves at him, and he does so as well before turning to face Onyx better }
‘’ There’s a lot of things you don’t know about me, dove. I do know how to play, in fact I’m an expert at double bass, and given a few days, I can typically pick up any instrument. Though . . . ever since Oakhurst I’ve stopped playing. Not for any particularly odd reason, I just haven’t had much time, and that town is very draining to any motivation one may have. ‘’
They watched the band before listening to Allen. “Well then there’s plenty of time to learn all the wonderful things about you. I used to play the acoustic guitar- although I stopped a year ago or so before coming to Oakhurst for.. other reasons. I probably wouldn’t have been able to bring it with anyway.” They smiled. “I’d love to hear you play if you ever pick it up again.”
They purred, looping an arm lazily around him. “Maybe we could do a duet if I can scrounge one up.” They looked down at him with a feigned yawn. “All this excitement has me exhausted- maybe we head home for tonight.”
{ He hums, purring at the idea of a duet, though he hisses when they pitch heading home. It’s not that he hates the idea, he just- }
‘’ Noo, I wanna stay with you! I wanna stay outside! I’m tired of being locked away and only being out when someone decides I’m worth the trouble to use . . . ‘’
They flinched a little at the hiss but are more preoccupied with Allen’s words. “What? Allen- you’re your own person- you’re in charge of what you do and where you go. And I will murder anyone who says otherwise.” They pulled him further into them, fronting slightly.
{ He sighs, staring at the floor and all the dirt and dust that it’s begun to house }
‘’ I’m not though . . . not tonight, not for most of my life, not now. Even when I think I’m free, I’m someone’s secret weapon. I’m the king’s, I’m the clockmaker’s- and spirits know I was Adelaide’s for . . . I’m glad she’s gone. She deserved all she got tonight. ‘’
Their gaze hardened with anger. Not at Allen- at everyone who had made him feel this way. They grasped Allen’s face in their hands. “Look at me. You can stop being the king’s pawn. We could run away right now- somewhere they won’t find us. You deserve to have a peaceful life.” They left out the bit about the clockmakers. They didn’t quite understand it- no matter how much he explained it. Perhaps it was just out of their control to grasp.
{ He stares at them, opening his mouth to speak but ends up closing it again. Eventually, he forces his gaze away from their own, though he doesn’t pry off their hands }
‘’ . . . I can’t. I have to save others before they end up like me. Broken. ‘’
They gave a sad smile. “Being broken is okay.” They didn’t deny it. “We’ll be broken together- two halves make a whole right?” They ran a thumb over his cheek. “If.. if that’s what you want, then we’ll do it together. Like in a movie- Allen and Onyx- saving the world.” They chuckled, trying to bring up his mood.
They squeezed his hand. “It’s alright- we’re in it together right?” They chuckled. “The world really better look out for us if we’re banding together- we might be too powerful.”
They cursed goodheartedly under their breath. “Saints save me” They rolled their eyes at Allen. “I suppose I must- if you keep saving my butt like this.”
{ He hums, fixating again on the hourglass, but not on the sand; on the emptiness left behind it }
‘’ It’s an hourglass. A family heirloom of sorts, it helps to manage the powers of a Clockmaker, which is considerably helpful for me seeing as I have no one to teach me how to use said powers thanks to my entire family being massacred . . . ‘’
{ The more he rants, the more his speech seems to slur, but some things can still be made out }
They frowned slightly. “That’s… sort of cool? It’s like a guide?” They chuckled. “Wish I had something like that when I first got turned.” They didn’t quite catch the last bit of the sentence, thoughts a bit scrambled.
{ How long had it been? Two months? A year? Too long; it had been two long since the barriers of Oakhurst fell away and breathed unholy life into the rest of the world. It had been too long since he had last been truly loved, been truly humane. It had been too long since the falling of many innocents, some more bloodied than others. It had been too long, that Allen had almost forgotten what they all looked like.
Of course, that’s why he had commissioned so many portraits. He didn’t want to forget. Guilty, innocent; known and unknown. They all deserved to be remembered. Alive or dead.
Perhaps that’s why he sat in the main hall every night, surrounded by their watchful eyes. Remembrance. Though, he had enough of that with those he allowed to stay in his estate. They were enough to remind him. And still, Allen would spend the late hours of the night to the rising of the sun alone in this hall. He never spoke a word about the folks in the paintings, but he would speak to them }
‘’ Recently let in this war general, Doc. He reminds me of you. ‘’
— @scarl3tt-h0rror
Owen still wasn't quite sure he was used to being a ghost - spirit? he wasn't sure what he technically was - but he did know that it was it's own form of hell. Time passed weird after he died, every moment felt brief, fleeting, and fake - with the exception of his last look at Louis, that was burned into his mind. Hell only felt numb, the flames that scorched his skin yet left no mark nothing but background for his thoughts of Louis.
He did of course think of others, Legundo and Allen mostly. But he didn’t know what happened to them, nor did he try to think of it, thus how he ended up lingering on Louis.
Yet, with little more than a blink, or at least that's what it felt like to him, he was here. He wasn't sure where "here" was but he did know it had Allen. And that was far better and more comfortable than any hell.
The sound of Allen's voice was all the more comforting. He didn't panic about the new surroundings, he didn't try to leave, he simply stayed because he could and he wanted to.
{ In the brief moments he’d experienced before, a warp of time was a massive headache for him. It’s how he knew something was wrong, and how he came to spot Owen, standing there still and cold. It almost gave Allen a heart attack, seeing him there again. He’s had his fair share of timely hallucinations, but those never caused headaches. This was different. Yet, he made no move or sound about it. Instead, he spoke one, open-ended question that he left hanging in the air, intensely charged as it was }
Owen averted his gaze as if immediately able to tell it was for him. He goes to dig his claws into the flesh of his palm, only there wasn't any actual flesh for pain to stem from. He can't help but glance back at Allen, his gaze lingering over his face, the curve his jaw and the way their hair fell over their face - it was hardly his fault that they were so beautiful.
He forces himself to look down, something akin to shame flickering across his face as he debates how to properly answer their question - but truthfully he knows there's no good answer, and he was never one to apologize quickly.
"...Some promises are hard to keep."
His voice is smaller than he meant it to be, then again it's one of the first times he's talked since dying.
{ He’s silent, replaying that answer over and over. Eventually, he simply scoffs, standing up and walking right past Owen, over to the painting of Louis instead }
‘’ Abolish said you had died with the hope of seeing him again . . . I can’t blame you for that. ‘’
{ After a beat, he turns to face the spirit, posture and emotions revealing nothing, and voice dead as can be }
‘’ I had asked him if you had given anything, said anything before you left. He shook his head. I lost you and Pyro in the same day. ‘’
{ There’s a split second where his hand twitches, but he tries not to pay it mind. Instead, he turns to walk again, this time not stopping till he reached the portrait of his dearest dead friend }
‘’ . . . though I suppose you weren’t thinking about that, were you? ‘’
Owen didn't meet his gaze - how could he? - yet he didn't take his eyes off of them. The only thing he stares at other than them is the painting of Louis, he can't help but nearly flinch at remembering how Louis stared at him when he saw him off to hell.
Owen notices the twitch of their hand and the way he clearly avoids his painting. For a split second he wishes he was back in hell, a thought he quickly smothers - at least now he knew Allen had stayed safe when whatever happened in Oakhurst finished.
"I suppose I got caught up in the moment, or rather the thought of seeing him again."
{ That makes him falter, if only for a split second, though he quickly covers it up again }
‘’ If that’s the closest you’ll get to an apology, I’ll take it. ‘’
{ His focus shifts to the portrait of Pyro, Shelby’s beside him and Avid’s next to her’s. When Abolish had first found Allen, he broke the news to them. Said he was there when Owen passed and Shelby instigated Pyro’s passing. And what did he offer next? A business card to reach him with and an offer to move in with Scott, Shelby and Drift once they’ve settled. When that didn’t work, he offered other solutions. Other condolences. Other ways to forgive and forget. Allen doesn’t recall what he said when he finally snapped, but it was the last he spoke to Abolish, and he’s proud of that. He’s never been such an easily forgetful man }
‘’ You know, it would make me so much happier if you stopped staring at me. As charming as that once was, I’m afraid you’ve lost that privilege. ‘’
Owen forces his gaze down to the ground, he was stubborn about many things but he was still respectful as much as he could be, and even more than that he wanted to make Allen happy if he could. He's already caused them plenty of pain, after all.
He fidgets with the fabric of his shirt, he can touch it yes but it feels like nothing, it's simply a mindless action. He shrinks in on himself slightly, an accidental, silent show of shame. Though he does take the fact that he hasn't yelled or told him to leave yet as a minor win. He tries to stay quiet but a question had been gnawing at his mind this whole time, and finally he blurted it out, the quietness of his own voice making him mentally cringe.
{ For a brief, fleeting moment, he cracked a smile. As terrorizing as Owen was, he was still Owen. That same quiet, grief-stricken man that Allen had found. That same respectful, devoted fool that they had once loved. Spirits, they had missed him . . . but not enough to forget }
‘’ I don’t know. ‘’
{ It was hard to admit. Allen hadn’t bothered keeping track of time, despite how habitual it was thanks to his bloodline. Frankly, his relationship with time was an unforgiving one. Therefore, he often chose to simply ignore it. But, somewhere deep down, he did still have a sense of time, and that sense gave him the truth of the hard matter }
Owen briefly glances back at Allen as he talks, but it's quick enough to barely be noticeable. There's a large part of him that wants to hug them, yet he's not even sure he could, and even more he doesn't wish to make them more irritated with him.
Owen wasn't quite sure how long was too long, or whether it meant Allen missed Oakhurst or missed him, nor would he ask, he didn't want to make things worse already. He nodded slightly and gave a small "Oh." He wasn't sure what else to say. What could he say to not make things worse?
He stares at his hands a moment instead of the floor, a short lived change as he quickly tries to pull his sleeves over them. A terrible thing about death was that he could no longer keep his bandages on every inch of him, he couldn't pull them over his hands anymore - something he did in Oakhurst before he had to use his claws as often - just so he didn't have to look at all the scars.
{ It’s in almost the blink of an eye that they silently move and take Owen’s hands in their own, pressing quick kisses to both before letting go and turning their back to him once more. Ghosts were tricky business as far as he had learned from the tales passed down by his ancestors. They could be touched, and they could touch, but only around a Clockmaker. There wasn’t much else documented past that. Not many had experienced an encounter with timely spirits, not since the incident. Perhaps that’s another reason Allen has been so hesitant to get near, much less touch, Owen. There’s too much uncertainty. Though, when has that ever stopped him }
Owen stops moving entirely for a moment, almost scared that if he moved he'd find out this was all an elaborate hallucination and he truly was still in hell. As it hit him that this was in fact stil real he questioned if ghosts could blush, if they could he was certain he was at the moment. He stares at his hands for another before he finally looks back up at them. If he were truly that mad at him Owen is almost certain he wouldn't have done that.
"I- hey- You can't just-!"
But they could, and he was sure they both knew that, because Owen was mad in some way but he wasn't insane enough to ever stop them from showing him love.
{ They sigh, feeling . . . well, simply feeling after what they had done. And so, to distract from the fact, he starts speaking again, shifting to look back at Louis’ portrait, with Owen’s hanging near to it }
‘’ When I drank from you, I got many memories that were not my own. Some belonged to the Doctor, some belonged to you . . . In all the time I’ve spent with them, I realized that our relationship was one giant cycle played over again. Love, lose, lose. First you lost Louis, then I lost you. And in the end? The losses—the grief—overpowers what once was love. ‘’
{ Finally, he moves his gaze back to Owen, looking at him for perhaps too long before speaking again }
‘’ I have decided, however, to not let the grief I have cause more losses. I have decided not to fall into the same position that you did. ‘’
Owen listens and continues to stare at the ground, after all they were entirely right. He knew to be ashamed now, he knew he had no right to stare at them, as he had already pointed out, and he knew he had no right to argue or try and justify himself. He can feel them staring at him and refuses all the more to look up in fear of finding any expression similar to what Louis' had been.
In fact, he wasn't sure any expression they could have at the moment would make him feel better.
He absent-mindedly rubs slightly at his hands, nearly still in disbelief that Allen could, and would, touch him.
{ They just stand there, watching him for a few minutes. It’s good that he feels ashamed, they keep thinking. He should feel ashamed. They should be happy about that. After all, one of the few things they wished for was to see him again and explain just how much he hurt them. But now . . . he was miserable enough. And so they decidedly stepped closer and took his hands once again in their own, silently praying that he’ll look at them again }
‘’ I’m not mad at you. I’m mad at what you did. I hope you recognize that. ‘’
{ After a beat, they press a kiss to one of his hands once again, before gently tracing the scarring. It takes some time before they finally admit it, but when they do, they’re sure to make sure it holds definite sincerity }
At first Owen nearly pulls away, even still he's unable to hide the slight flinch when they first grab his hands, and again they begin tracing his scars. Yet he leans their touch soon enough, he never could resist them much.
He stares at their hands for a moment before slowly trailing his gaze up his arms and to his face. He's sure that if he still could he would be blushing at the moment - not that he'd ever admit it. He slowly brings one of their hands to his lips, the gesture is there but he's unsure of how much they can feel it.
There's a large part of him that still wants to believe that he's mad at him, but who was he to call them a liar? He presses a second kiss to their hand.
{ They smile, eyes softening as they watch his every move. This is the man they loved. The one that they still love. And, admittedly, they’re quite proud of that. It’s almost unnoticeable, but a tear does roll down their cheek, and quickly afterwards, they pull him into a hug. He still feels real, even when he’s not. Maybe that’s the most tragic part of all }
‘’ I’ve missed you. I’ve missed you so, so much. I’m sorry . . . ‘’
Owen was sure if he could he'd be almost crying. He knew that it was his own fault for how Louis had to see him off, but still he couldn't quite comprehend how easily Allen would admit he still cares. He expected more anger.
"You have nothing to be sorry for. I missed you more than you could ever imagine."
{ He buries his face into the other’s shoulder, fisting his sweater to steady the shaking of his own violent sobs. It hurt. It hurt more than he ever could’ve expected it to hurt. And, for a split second, he loses control. The room shifts from the silent and cold estate hall to the open and warm grass of a graveyard. Despite having his eyes closed, he sees exactly what Owen sees. Too many graves marked with the last name “Scathelocke.” So many had been beaten and covered, but they all looked as though someone tried to keep care of them, albeit desperately and messily }
‘’ I-I’m sorry. I missed you. I swear I missed you. I love you, I love you . . . I’m sorry. ‘’
Owen glaces around the new surroundings before burrying his face into their hair. He couldn't quite feel them, but he knew exactly what it should feel like, he would almost say he could feel the phantom sensations. One of his hands moves to rest on the nape of their neck as he presses kiss to the top of their head.
He knew he could ask questions later, now was simply not the right time. He briefly wondered if they could feel him more than he could feel them, that would make sense.
{ They’re silent for a long time, breathing slowly steadying to a lull. Their grip of him never loosens, though. They’re terrified to turn around, even if they’ve already seen it a thousand times before. So instead, they focus on his words again, turning them over and over before gently pressing a kiss to his neck }
Owen kisses the top of their head again, his fingers tangling themselves into their hair. He'd missed this, he missed it far more than he could ever express with words. He wishes he could cry too, he knows he'd hate feeling weak but it would feel nice, relaxing even.
{ They purr, leaning into his hand around their neck while thoroughly enjoying the fleeting sensation of his fingers in their hair. Though, out of everything in that moment, it was the familiar nickname that made them pause, heart softening and breaking at its recall }
He can't help but giggle a little at their tone, and even more he can't help but start purring too - it's light, yes, but undoubtedly it's there. He presses another kiss to the top of their head, a part of him wanting to kiss their face but not wanting to move them. When he talks his voice is almost pure teasing.
{ They laugh, pulling away from his shoulder and easing their grip on him. They’ve missed this. They’ve missed him. His teasing, his shame, his love, his anger. They missed everything about him }
‘’ I guess so, though I can’t fathom why. ‘’
{ It’s another brief, fleeting second, but they lean up to steal a kiss from him, even though the action seems entirely pointless }
Owen smiles slightly as they kiss him, bringing the hand not already tangled in their hair to cup their cheek. He misses the feel of their skin, but this was still better than not being with them at all. He adores them, he truly does.
"How silly of you to think I could forget a single thing about you."
He presses a kiss to their cheek, a gesture fleeting and even more pointless than theirs, yet he knows they'll love it all the same.
Owen leans into it as much as he can, desperately wishing to feel them again. This was his own fault, and he knew that, but he still greatly regretted it now.
"You're so beautiful, sweetheart."
His thumb rubbed back and forth on their cheek, pointless now but the thought and geesturre still there.
{ They smile, choking on a sob before burring their face against him once more. After a moment, they pull a distance away from him and grab his arm, slowly trailing kisses up it, looking back at him every so often for some sort of response }
‘’ You flatter me. Even when you deserve it more . . . my handsome sire. ‘’
Owen can't help but watch them, memories causing phantom sensations; he's never been more grateful to have a good memory. He eventually grabs one of their hands and presses a kiss to the back of his hand.
"Is it flattery if it's the truth?..."
He pauses a moment, biting back the urge to say "I hate you" - even though they'd both knew it was a heatless statement by now.
{ They squeak when he kisses their hand, turning to look at him, though any ire that they might’ve had is immediately gone. So instead, they roll their eyes }
‘’ Perhaps. Perhaps not. ‘’
{ A smirk crosses their face when he brings up his loathing for that old title. They soon enough let go of his hand and move closer as to cup his face }
‘’ Oh, I know . . . but you get so riled up when I call you it, sire. And you’re very cute when you’re all riled up. ‘’
A small smile graces his face, the corners of his lips tipping upwards, as they squeak. Oh how he's missed this. He melts into their touch, as much as he can of course, tilting his head to press a light kiss against their palm.
"It's far closer to a statement than flattery."
Owen can't help but pout at them. He hates how well they know how to mess with him.
{ They hum, a slight blush crossing their face as he kisses their palm. Though, with just as much as a smirk, they steal a kiss from him. Despite the lack of life, the love and spark still lingers there }
He pressed another, slightly longer kiss against their palm. One perk of no longer being made of flesh abd blood was that he could no longer blush and encourage their shenanigans by doing so. It won't give them the same satisfaction now, a small win for him.
"I'm really not. Maybe you need to get your eyes checked, sweetheart."
{ By all means, they were going to. They were fully prepared to shut him up right then and there, but then he called them fledgling, and they couldn’t bear to look at the certain amusement in his eyes at seeing their reaction. And so, to avoid such comfort, they turned to face the heads of fallen family. Heads that they carry with them to this day, that whisper in their ears and urge them to revisit the past. If only they could shut up- }
It will be quick, and then they can have a good time. That’s what Allen keeps telling himself as he waits just outside the castle. He wouldn’t say it, and you can never really tell, but he’s scared. Terrified, actually. And for good reason. The last time he was given a mission like this, he almost met the same fate as his family. Of course, he was inexperienced and insecure back then. Today he’s prepared. Today, there’s something worth fighting to return to.
—
@onyx-of-oakhurst + anyone else who feels like joining! the setting is a gala (see prev rp starter)
“Hello love” They purred, walking up besides Allen. “You ready to have some fun with this?” They were attempting to not only ease their own nerves about the banquet-but also their lover’s.
They smiled in return, grasping Allen’s hand and they walking into the grand doors. “I’m sure you’ll be great” They whispered to him as they swept a gaze across the already crowded dance floor.
{ He rolled his eyes, searching for that old, wretched face, and thankfully, it wasn’t long before he found it hidden in conversation with other fanciful folk. He purred, turning to press a quick kiss to Onyx’s cheek }
‘’ I sincerely hope you’re right. I’ll be right back, dear. ‘’
{ And with that, his smile fell and his hand broke away from theirs as he disappeared into the crowd, only being seen as he left to the balcony with his old boss joined by arm. One can only wish him luck that he does not get caught a second time }
They watched as he went, but only for a moment as he was soon lost by the crowd. They resigned themselves to simply swaying to the music played by the band.
{ True to his word, it wasn’t long before he was back down from the balcony, with no one else following behind. Despite seeing Onyx clearly, he headed straight for one of the doors to outside, seemingly to catch a breath. As glad that he is that it’s over with, he can’t help but ache and shake, remembering the way the moon caught him again falling someone for another’s gain }
They glanced over at Allen, happy to see that he was alright. A body swiftly moved in from of their gaze, crow black hair swooping in front of their face.
“May I have this dance?”
Something about the figure seemed familiar- ‘Surely it’s not him?! Maybe he won’t remember me. It was a year ago after all.’
They flicked their gaze to the man’s hand, grasping it nervously. “Of course.”
{ Still outside, he wandered the gardens before spotting a bench and sitting down upon it. With a wary glance around the empty garden, his form shifted, with that familiar, bloodied coral resuming its usually unseen position. He closed his eyes briefly, though what happened should’ve been years for any regular folk. Still, within a few seconds he stood and walked again into the ballroom, grabbing a drink only to be caught by a familiar face }
“Allen! There’s my fiery hand! How has the night treated you so far?”
{ The king’s questioning look at his coral didn’t fly past unnoticed, but he didn’t bring it up, either, instead focusing on the conversation ahead, and how to get out of it }
‘’ Wonderful. Just took a trip up to the balcony and the moon was such a marvelous sight. Oh! And these drinks? Splendid. Thank you for informing me which is which. ‘’
They nervously shuffled along the basics of the dance- some old slow folk song they hardly knew. The taller man seemed confident in his movements, perhaps holding on a little too tightly to the vampire’s hands.
“Now what’s a lovely young person like you doing all alone at such a large party like this?”
They swallowed, avoiding eye contact with the man. “Oh, you know how it goes-just out for a friendly bit of dancing and maybe some drinks.” They thought maybe it wouldn’t be wise to mention Allen to the man.
{ The king smiled, nodding to acknowledge the secret phrase exchanged. Though, his smile dimmed when he recalled how Allen typically is after a job }
“Don’t suppose you’ll be sticking around much longer?”
{ At that, a crooked smile crossed Allen’s face as he pulled a miniature hourglass out of a hidden pocket. He twirled it back and forth, eyes focused on it before they snap up to the crown }
‘’ Ohhh noooo, I think I’ll be around a moment longer. Can’t let the night go to waste, now, can we? ‘’
{ Before another word can be spoken, the king is pulled off into a conversation with some up-starts while Allen shifts his focus to the search of the ballroom, temptations nagging at the back of his mind }
The song finally came to an end and Onyx was more than happy to step back when the man tightened his grip on their arm.
“Oh, another dance please. I insist.”
They froze, reluctantly following his footsteps to the next song. ‘It’s fear’ they told themselves as they danced ‘surely it’s just fear. That’s normal’ They caught a glimpse of his eyes behind his hair- blood red. ‘It’s him’ the realization dawned on them as they fought to take unneeded breaths.
{ He circled around the dance floor, giving and accepting short dance requests before coming upon Onyx and their odd pair. Though, he walked away quickly enough, only to join the band on stage and switch with the current bass player, who clearly needed a breather. With a charming smile and easy attitude, Allen convinces the band to all take a break, promising that he’ll watch over their instruments while they get a drink. And with that, the music goes on an eerie pause, the only sound being the gentle tapping of sand in his hourglass as it makes contact with the bottom }
They could not have been more grateful for the lull in music as they quickly scrambled backwards from him. “St-stay away from me!” They hissed, trying to disappear into the crowd.
“Oh come on love, I’m not doing any harm. Let’s just put the past in the past Onyx.”
They shook their head frantically. “I said stay away Corvin!” They shrieked, spotting Allen on the stage. ‘Oh thank the saints’ They weaved in between people, heading for the stage as fast as they could- most likely with their former side pursuing.
{ The entire commotion doesn’t fall on empty ears. In fact, Allen’s quick to lay the bass in its case as he heads towards the end of the stage, picking Onyx up and urging them to take his previous seat as he faces the oh-so aggressively average man }
‘’ Do you have a problem, sir? I promise, the band will be making their return very soon. In the meantime, I’m taking requests. Do you have any? ‘’
Onyx sat down heavily, eyes wide and frightened before they watched Allen handle it. Honestly- they should be more concerned for Allen right now but they were too wrapped up in their panic. They heard the conversation between the two.
“No problems here. Just catching up with an old acquaintance. I’ll wait for the band to come back.”
Corvin’s voice was as silky smooth as before- it sent shivers down their spine.
{ He purrs, tilting his head to the side thoughtfully }
‘’ Ohh, but I’m not sure that your ‘old acquaintance’ wants to catch up with you. ‘’
{ He snaps his fingers, as if finally catching an idea }
‘’ Tell you what, how about I tell your fortune for you, huh? I’m quite knowledgeable like that. Let’s see . . . ‘’
{ It’s a hidden movement as he reaches behind for the hourglass, which spins around before shifting into a diamond blade, warped by ocean tides and wrapped in coral. Infused in it is decorative iron used to be reminiscent of the stars, but now, it serves a purpose as Allen points it straight at Corvin’s throat }
‘’ . . . I think that you’ll leave this town for good if you want to keep not only your head, but also those that you need. After all, I’m not above a little massacre, it’s what I do, and I’ve been craving it all night. ‘’
Onyx’s eyes widened as they saw Allen pull the knife before gawking at the out of character response from Corvin.
“Woah now darling, let’s calm down. I’ll just leave and you lot can continue your night in peace.”
Corvin held his hands up warily, taking a half step back, something odd flickering in his eyes. Surely he wasnt scared right? Onyx had lived personally maybe too personally with this man for over a year and never seen him scared. They stood and walked up behind Allen with newfound confidence at his lover’s approach.
Onyx bared their unusually sharp teeth at Corvin. “You heard him.” They snapped, confident at Allen’s side.
They watched as Corvin gave a low growl before sulking off into the crowd. As soon as he disappeared, Onyx let out an unneeded shaky breath. “Thank you.”
{ He nods, twirling the blade back into an hourglass before he grabs their hand and pulls them backstage. Even when they’re hidden by the curtains—out of all prying eyes—he refuses to let go of their hand }
‘’ Are you okay? Holy- Onyx, do I need to go after him? I will! It’s tempting, believe me. I was not joking about all that, I will become the Owen of this town if I must . . . oh, my love . . . ‘’
{ He reaches his other hand to cup their cheek, gently rubbing his thumb across it. All confidence that he portrayed is melted away to reveal something softer; duller despite its broken edges }
Their eyes were slightly frantic as they subconsciously leaned into his hand. “I-uh maybe? I do-don’t know. I’m sorry. I’m really sorry.” They shut their eyes, trying to take stuttering breaths to calm themselves down.
{ He doesn’t wait much of a second, searching their face for any cues before pulling them into a hug. He moves his hands to wrap around them, gently rubbing their back }
‘’ It’s not your fault. There’s no need to be sorry. I’m sorry you have to deal with him. No one deserves that. You’re okay now. You’re safe. Just breathe. ‘’
They nuzzled into the nook of Allen’s shoulder. Their breaths eventually evened out until they stopped entirely. Maybe their body was actually calm now. They pulled back a bit, still staying in Allen’s arms. It was comforting. “Sorry, you shouldn’t have to deal with this too- I know tonight was already stressful for you. I mean- what are the chances he just happens to show up at the same gala and dance with me…”
They smiled at the kiss, nodding slowly. “If you’re sure…” they were a bit uncertain about that. “You’re hot when you’re threatening.” They teased, trying to take their mind off of the fact that Corbin knew more than they were comfortable with about where they were, why they looked like now, and… Allen.
{ He smiles only briefly before their tease registered, and his face grew red in an instant. Immediately he covers his face with his hands, whining at his current circumstances }
‘’ Don’t say that . . . I’m not! There’s nothing hot about that! . . . I don’t need people figuring out a new way to tease me. ‘’
They smiled, flicking his nose with a finger as they lifted one of his hands up. “It is! It’s nice to know someone is there to protect me in such a threatening manner.” They purred at Allen’s red face. oh how the turns have tabled.
{ He only flustered even more, lowering his other hand, though he still doesn’t meet their gaze }
‘’ I hate you . . . ‘’
{ After a second, he kisses them, pulling away with the light dragging of his fangs on their lower lip, hoping despite himself that maybe it’ll stop the teasing for a bit }
They purred, flashing a toothy grin at him. “Sure you do.” They leaned back in again, anxiety temporarily diminished with Allen. They leaned into the kiss before pulling back. “How long is the band away for?”
They shook their head. “I’m fine with it- they might be a little spooked to see two strangers backstage.” They didn’t really want to dance right now- it seemed too recent from earlier. “Maybe we go and get something to drink?”
{ Soon enough, they reach the table, and he lets go of their hand to take one of the bottles and drink . . . but he almost immediately slams the bottle down again, wary of the taste reminding them of that body- . . . is she still up there? Spirits, he really is like Pyro . . . }
They stood at the table, connecting some of the dots between Allen’s reaction and the bits of fired blood speckling his mouth. “Here,” they extended their wrist to him. “It’ll taste different.”
{ His eyes widen at their offering, though it’s not long before he inevitably sinks his teeth into it. Thankfully, it does taste different. In fact, it tastes much better than any others he’s tried in a long time . . . but he has to pull away. Both for his reputation and to keep his lover semiconscious }
They nodded, sitting down to combat the minor dizziness. “Of course love.” They reached out with their other hand, grabbing the bottle and taking a swig. “Send my thanks to the king- this is pretty good.”
{ He nods, licking the remaining blood from his lips as he grabs a chair to sit next to them in. He takes their wrist in his hand, gently rubbing his thumb over the wound before lifting it up to his mouth a pressing a kiss to it before letting it fall to their side again }
The purred at the movement. “Kisses make everything better right?” They chuckled a bit, watching the band come back to the stage. “How did you end up on stage? I didn’t know you played.”
{ He hums, smiling just a smidge as he watches the band pick up their instruments. The bass player waves at him, and he does so as well before turning to face Onyx better }
‘’ There’s a lot of things you don’t know about me, dove. I do know how to play, in fact I’m an expert at double bass, and given a few days, I can typically pick up any instrument. Though . . . ever since Oakhurst I’ve stopped playing. Not for any particularly odd reason, I just haven’t had much time, and that town is very draining to any motivation one may have. ‘’
They watched the band before listening to Allen. “Well then there’s plenty of time to learn all the wonderful things about you. I used to play the acoustic guitar- although I stopped a year ago or so before coming to Oakhurst for.. other reasons. I probably wouldn’t have been able to bring it with anyway.” They smiled. “I’d love to hear you play if you ever pick it up again.”
They purred, looping an arm lazily around him. “Maybe we could do a duet if I can scrounge one up.” They looked down at him with a feigned yawn. “All this excitement has me exhausted- maybe we head home for tonight.”
{ He hums, purring at the idea of a duet, though he hisses when they pitch heading home. It’s not that he hates the idea, he just- }
‘’ Noo, I wanna stay with you! I wanna stay outside! I’m tired of being locked away and only being out when someone decides I’m worth the trouble to use . . . ‘’
They flinched a little at the hiss but are more preoccupied with Allen’s words. “What? Allen- you’re your own person- you’re in charge of what you do and where you go. And I will murder anyone who says otherwise.” They pulled him further into them, fronting slightly.
{ He sighs, staring at the floor and all the dirt and dust that it’s begun to house }
‘’ I’m not though . . . not tonight, not for most of my life, not now. Even when I think I’m free, I’m someone’s secret weapon. I’m the king’s, I’m the clockmaker’s- and spirits know I was Adelaide’s for . . . I’m glad she’s gone. She deserved all she got tonight. ‘’
Their gaze hardened with anger. Not at Allen- at everyone who had made him feel this way. They grasped Allen’s face in their hands. “Look at me. You can stop being the king’s pawn. We could run away right now- somewhere they won’t find us. You deserve to have a peaceful life.” They left out the bit about the clockmakers. They didn’t quite understand it- no matter how much he explained it. Perhaps it was just out of their control to grasp.
{ He stares at them, opening his mouth to speak but ends up closing it again. Eventually, he forces his gaze away from their own, though he doesn’t pry off their hands }
‘’ . . . I can’t. I have to save others before they end up like me. Broken. ‘’
They gave a sad smile. “Being broken is okay.” They didn’t deny it. “We’ll be broken together- two halves make a whole right?” They ran a thumb over his cheek. “If.. if that’s what you want, then we’ll do it together. Like in a movie- Allen and Onyx- saving the world.” They chuckled, trying to bring up his mood.
They squeezed his hand. “It’s alright- we’re in it together right?” They chuckled. “The world really better look out for us if we’re banding together- we might be too powerful.”
They cursed goodheartedly under their breath. “Saints save me” They rolled their eyes at Allen. “I suppose I must- if you keep saving my butt like this.”
{ He hums, fixating again on the hourglass, but not on the sand; on the emptiness left behind it }
‘’ It’s an hourglass. A family heirloom of sorts, it helps to manage the powers of a Clockmaker, which is considerably helpful for me seeing as I have no one to teach me how to use said powers thanks to my entire family being massacred . . . ‘’
{ The more he rants, the more his speech seems to slur, but some things can still be made out }
It will be quick, and then they can have a good time. That’s what Allen keeps telling himself as he waits just outside the castle. He wouldn’t say it, and you can never really tell, but he’s scared. Terrified, actually. And for good reason. The last time he was given a mission like this, he almost met the same fate as his family. Of course, he was inexperienced and insecure back then. Today he’s prepared. Today, there’s something worth fighting to return to.
—
@onyx-of-oakhurst + anyone else who feels like joining! the setting is a gala (see prev rp starter)
“Hello love” They purred, walking up besides Allen. “You ready to have some fun with this?” They were attempting to not only ease their own nerves about the banquet-but also their lover’s.
They smiled in return, grasping Allen’s hand and they walking into the grand doors. “I’m sure you’ll be great” They whispered to him as they swept a gaze across the already crowded dance floor.
{ He rolled his eyes, searching for that old, wretched face, and thankfully, it wasn’t long before he found it hidden in conversation with other fanciful folk. He purred, turning to press a quick kiss to Onyx’s cheek }
‘’ I sincerely hope you’re right. I’ll be right back, dear. ‘’
{ And with that, his smile fell and his hand broke away from theirs as he disappeared into the crowd, only being seen as he left to the balcony with his old boss joined by arm. One can only wish him luck that he does not get caught a second time }
They watched as he went, but only for a moment as he was soon lost by the crowd. They resigned themselves to simply swaying to the music played by the band.
{ True to his word, it wasn’t long before he was back down from the balcony, with no one else following behind. Despite seeing Onyx clearly, he headed straight for one of the doors to outside, seemingly to catch a breath. As glad that he is that it’s over with, he can’t help but ache and shake, remembering the way the moon caught him again falling someone for another’s gain }
They glanced over at Allen, happy to see that he was alright. A body swiftly moved in from of their gaze, crow black hair swooping in front of their face.
“May I have this dance?”
Something about the figure seemed familiar- ‘Surely it’s not him?! Maybe he won’t remember me. It was a year ago after all.’
They flicked their gaze to the man’s hand, grasping it nervously. “Of course.”
{ Still outside, he wandered the gardens before spotting a bench and sitting down upon it. With a wary glance around the empty garden, his form shifted, with that familiar, bloodied coral resuming its usually unseen position. He closed his eyes briefly, though what happened should’ve been years for any regular folk. Still, within a few seconds he stood and walked again into the ballroom, grabbing a drink only to be caught by a familiar face }
“Allen! There’s my fiery hand! How has the night treated you so far?”
{ The king’s questioning look at his coral didn’t fly past unnoticed, but he didn’t bring it up, either, instead focusing on the conversation ahead, and how to get out of it }
‘’ Wonderful. Just took a trip up to the balcony and the moon was such a marvelous sight. Oh! And these drinks? Splendid. Thank you for informing me which is which. ‘’
They nervously shuffled along the basics of the dance- some old slow folk song they hardly knew. The taller man seemed confident in his movements, perhaps holding on a little too tightly to the vampire’s hands.
“Now what’s a lovely young person like you doing all alone at such a large party like this?”
They swallowed, avoiding eye contact with the man. “Oh, you know how it goes-just out for a friendly bit of dancing and maybe some drinks.” They thought maybe it wouldn’t be wise to mention Allen to the man.
{ The king smiled, nodding to acknowledge the secret phrase exchanged. Though, his smile dimmed when he recalled how Allen typically is after a job }
“Don’t suppose you’ll be sticking around much longer?”
{ At that, a crooked smile crossed Allen’s face as he pulled a miniature hourglass out of a hidden pocket. He twirled it back and forth, eyes focused on it before they snap up to the crown }
‘’ Ohhh noooo, I think I’ll be around a moment longer. Can’t let the night go to waste, now, can we? ‘’
{ Before another word can be spoken, the king is pulled off into a conversation with some up-starts while Allen shifts his focus to the search of the ballroom, temptations nagging at the back of his mind }
The song finally came to an end and Onyx was more than happy to step back when the man tightened his grip on their arm.
“Oh, another dance please. I insist.”
They froze, reluctantly following his footsteps to the next song. ‘It’s fear’ they told themselves as they danced ‘surely it’s just fear. That’s normal’ They caught a glimpse of his eyes behind his hair- blood red. ‘It’s him’ the realization dawned on them as they fought to take unneeded breaths.
{ He circled around the dance floor, giving and accepting short dance requests before coming upon Onyx and their odd pair. Though, he walked away quickly enough, only to join the band on stage and switch with the current bass player, who clearly needed a breather. With a charming smile and easy attitude, Allen convinces the band to all take a break, promising that he’ll watch over their instruments while they get a drink. And with that, the music goes on an eerie pause, the only sound being the gentle tapping of sand in his hourglass as it makes contact with the bottom }
They could not have been more grateful for the lull in music as they quickly scrambled backwards from him. “St-stay away from me!” They hissed, trying to disappear into the crowd.
“Oh come on love, I’m not doing any harm. Let’s just put the past in the past Onyx.”
They shook their head frantically. “I said stay away Corvin!” They shrieked, spotting Allen on the stage. ‘Oh thank the saints’ They weaved in between people, heading for the stage as fast as they could- most likely with their former side pursuing.
{ The entire commotion doesn’t fall on empty ears. In fact, Allen’s quick to lay the bass in its case as he heads towards the end of the stage, picking Onyx up and urging them to take his previous seat as he faces the oh-so aggressively average man }
‘’ Do you have a problem, sir? I promise, the band will be making their return very soon. In the meantime, I’m taking requests. Do you have any? ‘’
Onyx sat down heavily, eyes wide and frightened before they watched Allen handle it. Honestly- they should be more concerned for Allen right now but they were too wrapped up in their panic. They heard the conversation between the two.
“No problems here. Just catching up with an old acquaintance. I’ll wait for the band to come back.”
Corvin’s voice was as silky smooth as before- it sent shivers down their spine.
{ He purrs, tilting his head to the side thoughtfully }
‘’ Ohh, but I’m not sure that your ‘old acquaintance’ wants to catch up with you. ‘’
{ He snaps his fingers, as if finally catching an idea }
‘’ Tell you what, how about I tell your fortune for you, huh? I’m quite knowledgeable like that. Let’s see . . . ‘’
{ It’s a hidden movement as he reaches behind for the hourglass, which spins around before shifting into a diamond blade, warped by ocean tides and wrapped in coral. Infused in it is decorative iron used to be reminiscent of the stars, but now, it serves a purpose as Allen points it straight at Corvin’s throat }
‘’ . . . I think that you’ll leave this town for good if you want to keep not only your head, but also those that you need. After all, I’m not above a little massacre, it’s what I do, and I’ve been craving it all night. ‘’
Onyx’s eyes widened as they saw Allen pull the knife before gawking at the out of character response from Corvin.
“Woah now darling, let’s calm down. I’ll just leave and you lot can continue your night in peace.”
Corvin held his hands up warily, taking a half step back, something odd flickering in his eyes. Surely he wasnt scared right? Onyx had lived personally maybe too personally with this man for over a year and never seen him scared. They stood and walked up behind Allen with newfound confidence at his lover’s approach.
Onyx bared their unusually sharp teeth at Corvin. “You heard him.” They snapped, confident at Allen’s side.
They watched as Corvin gave a low growl before sulking off into the crowd. As soon as he disappeared, Onyx let out an unneeded shaky breath. “Thank you.”
{ He nods, twirling the blade back into an hourglass before he grabs their hand and pulls them backstage. Even when they’re hidden by the curtains—out of all prying eyes—he refuses to let go of their hand }
‘’ Are you okay? Holy- Onyx, do I need to go after him? I will! It’s tempting, believe me. I was not joking about all that, I will become the Owen of this town if I must . . . oh, my love . . . ‘’
{ He reaches his other hand to cup their cheek, gently rubbing his thumb across it. All confidence that he portrayed is melted away to reveal something softer; duller despite its broken edges }
Their eyes were slightly frantic as they subconsciously leaned into his hand. “I-uh maybe? I do-don’t know. I’m sorry. I’m really sorry.” They shut their eyes, trying to take stuttering breaths to calm themselves down.
{ He doesn’t wait much of a second, searching their face for any cues before pulling them into a hug. He moves his hands to wrap around them, gently rubbing their back }
‘’ It’s not your fault. There’s no need to be sorry. I’m sorry you have to deal with him. No one deserves that. You’re okay now. You’re safe. Just breathe. ‘’
They nuzzled into the nook of Allen’s shoulder. Their breaths eventually evened out until they stopped entirely. Maybe their body was actually calm now. They pulled back a bit, still staying in Allen’s arms. It was comforting. “Sorry, you shouldn’t have to deal with this too- I know tonight was already stressful for you. I mean- what are the chances he just happens to show up at the same gala and dance with me…”
They smiled at the kiss, nodding slowly. “If you’re sure…” they were a bit uncertain about that. “You’re hot when you’re threatening.” They teased, trying to take their mind off of the fact that Corbin knew more than they were comfortable with about where they were, why they looked like now, and… Allen.
{ He smiles only briefly before their tease registered, and his face grew red in an instant. Immediately he covers his face with his hands, whining at his current circumstances }
‘’ Don’t say that . . . I’m not! There’s nothing hot about that! . . . I don’t need people figuring out a new way to tease me. ‘’
They smiled, flicking his nose with a finger as they lifted one of his hands up. “It is! It’s nice to know someone is there to protect me in such a threatening manner.” They purred at Allen’s red face. oh how the turns have tabled.
{ He only flustered even more, lowering his other hand, though he still doesn’t meet their gaze }
‘’ I hate you . . . ‘’
{ After a second, he kisses them, pulling away with the light dragging of his fangs on their lower lip, hoping despite himself that maybe it’ll stop the teasing for a bit }
They purred, flashing a toothy grin at him. “Sure you do.” They leaned back in again, anxiety temporarily diminished with Allen. They leaned into the kiss before pulling back. “How long is the band away for?”
They shook their head. “I’m fine with it- they might be a little spooked to see two strangers backstage.” They didn’t really want to dance right now- it seemed too recent from earlier. “Maybe we go and get something to drink?”
{ Soon enough, they reach the table, and he lets go of their hand to take one of the bottles and drink . . . but he almost immediately slams the bottle down again, wary of the taste reminding them of that body- . . . is she still up there? Spirits, he really is like Pyro . . . }
They stood at the table, connecting some of the dots between Allen’s reaction and the bits of fired blood speckling his mouth. “Here,” they extended their wrist to him. “It’ll taste different.”
{ His eyes widen at their offering, though it’s not long before he inevitably sinks his teeth into it. Thankfully, it does taste different. In fact, it tastes much better than any others he’s tried in a long time . . . but he has to pull away. Both for his reputation and to keep his lover semiconscious }
They nodded, sitting down to combat the minor dizziness. “Of course love.” They reached out with their other hand, grabbing the bottle and taking a swig. “Send my thanks to the king- this is pretty good.”
{ He nods, licking the remaining blood from his lips as he grabs a chair to sit next to them in. He takes their wrist in his hand, gently rubbing his thumb over the wound before lifting it up to his mouth a pressing a kiss to it before letting it fall to their side again }
The purred at the movement. “Kisses make everything better right?” They chuckled a bit, watching the band come back to the stage. “How did you end up on stage? I didn’t know you played.”
{ He hums, smiling just a smidge as he watches the band pick up their instruments. The bass player waves at him, and he does so as well before turning to face Onyx better }
‘’ There’s a lot of things you don’t know about me, dove. I do know how to play, in fact I’m an expert at double bass, and given a few days, I can typically pick up any instrument. Though . . . ever since Oakhurst I’ve stopped playing. Not for any particularly odd reason, I just haven’t had much time, and that town is very draining to any motivation one may have. ‘’
They watched the band before listening to Allen. “Well then there’s plenty of time to learn all the wonderful things about you. I used to play the acoustic guitar- although I stopped a year ago or so before coming to Oakhurst for.. other reasons. I probably wouldn’t have been able to bring it with anyway.” They smiled. “I’d love to hear you play if you ever pick it up again.”
They purred, looping an arm lazily around him. “Maybe we could do a duet if I can scrounge one up.” They looked down at him with a feigned yawn. “All this excitement has me exhausted- maybe we head home for tonight.”
{ He hums, purring at the idea of a duet, though he hisses when they pitch heading home. It’s not that he hates the idea, he just- }
‘’ Noo, I wanna stay with you! I wanna stay outside! I’m tired of being locked away and only being out when someone decides I’m worth the trouble to use . . . ‘’
They flinched a little at the hiss but are more preoccupied with Allen’s words. “What? Allen- you’re your own person- you’re in charge of what you do and where you go. And I will murder anyone who says otherwise.” They pulled him further into them, fronting slightly.
{ He sighs, staring at the floor and all the dirt and dust that it’s begun to house }
‘’ I’m not though . . . not tonight, not for most of my life, not now. Even when I think I’m free, I’m someone’s secret weapon. I’m the king’s, I’m the clockmaker’s- and spirits know I was Adelaide’s for . . . I’m glad she’s gone. She deserved all she got tonight. ‘’
Their gaze hardened with anger. Not at Allen- at everyone who had made him feel this way. They grasped Allen’s face in their hands. “Look at me. You can stop being the king’s pawn. We could run away right now- somewhere they won’t find us. You deserve to have a peaceful life.” They left out the bit about the clockmakers. They didn’t quite understand it- no matter how much he explained it. Perhaps it was just out of their control to grasp.
{ He stares at them, opening his mouth to speak but ends up closing it again. Eventually, he forces his gaze away from their own, though he doesn’t pry off their hands }
‘’ . . . I can’t. I have to save others before they end up like me. Broken. ‘’
They gave a sad smile. “Being broken is okay.” They didn’t deny it. “We’ll be broken together- two halves make a whole right?” They ran a thumb over his cheek. “If.. if that’s what you want, then we’ll do it together. Like in a movie- Allen and Onyx- saving the world.” They chuckled, trying to bring up his mood.
They squeezed his hand. “It’s alright- we’re in it together right?” They chuckled. “The world really better look out for us if we’re banding together- we might be too powerful.”
They cursed goodheartedly under their breath. “Saints save me” They rolled their eyes at Allen. “I suppose I must- if you keep saving my butt like this.”
{ How long had it been? Two months? A year? Too long; it had been two long since the barriers of Oakhurst fell away and breathed unholy life into the rest of the world. It had been too long since he had last been truly loved, been truly humane. It had been too long since the falling of many innocents, some more bloodied than others. It had been too long, that Allen had almost forgotten what they all looked like.
Of course, that’s why he had commissioned so many portraits. He didn’t want to forget. Guilty, innocent; known and unknown. They all deserved to be remembered. Alive or dead.
Perhaps that’s why he sat in the main hall every night, surrounded by their watchful eyes. Remembrance. Though, he had enough of that with those he allowed to stay in his estate. They were enough to remind him. And still, Allen would spend the late hours of the night to the rising of the sun alone in this hall. He never spoke a word about the folks in the paintings, but he would speak to them }
‘’ Recently let in this war general, Doc. He reminds me of you. ‘’
— @scarl3tt-h0rror
Owen still wasn't quite sure he was used to being a ghost - spirit? he wasn't sure what he technically was - but he did know that it was it's own form of hell. Time passed weird after he died, every moment felt brief, fleeting, and fake - with the exception of his last look at Louis, that was burned into his mind. Hell only felt numb, the flames that scorched his skin yet left no mark nothing but background for his thoughts of Louis.
He did of course think of others, Legundo and Allen mostly. But he didn’t know what happened to them, nor did he try to think of it, thus how he ended up lingering on Louis.
Yet, with little more than a blink, or at least that's what it felt like to him, he was here. He wasn't sure where "here" was but he did know it had Allen. And that was far better and more comfortable than any hell.
The sound of Allen's voice was all the more comforting. He didn't panic about the new surroundings, he didn't try to leave, he simply stayed because he could and he wanted to.
{ In the brief moments he’d experienced before, a warp of time was a massive headache for him. It’s how he knew something was wrong, and how he came to spot Owen, standing there still and cold. It almost gave Allen a heart attack, seeing him there again. He’s had his fair share of timely hallucinations, but those never caused headaches. This was different. Yet, he made no move or sound about it. Instead, he spoke one, open-ended question that he left hanging in the air, intensely charged as it was }
Owen averted his gaze as if immediately able to tell it was for him. He goes to dig his claws into the flesh of his palm, only there wasn't any actual flesh for pain to stem from. He can't help but glance back at Allen, his gaze lingering over his face, the curve his jaw and the way their hair fell over their face - it was hardly his fault that they were so beautiful.
He forces himself to look down, something akin to shame flickering across his face as he debates how to properly answer their question - but truthfully he knows there's no good answer, and he was never one to apologize quickly.
"...Some promises are hard to keep."
His voice is smaller than he meant it to be, then again it's one of the first times he's talked since dying.
{ He’s silent, replaying that answer over and over. Eventually, he simply scoffs, standing up and walking right past Owen, over to the painting of Louis instead }
‘’ Abolish said you had died with the hope of seeing him again . . . I can’t blame you for that. ‘’
{ After a beat, he turns to face the spirit, posture and emotions revealing nothing, and voice dead as can be }
‘’ I had asked him if you had given anything, said anything before you left. He shook his head. I lost you and Pyro in the same day. ‘’
{ There’s a split second where his hand twitches, but he tries not to pay it mind. Instead, he turns to walk again, this time not stopping till he reached the portrait of his dearest dead friend }
‘’ . . . though I suppose you weren’t thinking about that, were you? ‘’
Owen didn't meet his gaze - how could he? - yet he didn't take his eyes off of them. The only thing he stares at other than them is the painting of Louis, he can't help but nearly flinch at remembering how Louis stared at him when he saw him off to hell.
Owen notices the twitch of their hand and the way he clearly avoids his painting. For a split second he wishes he was back in hell, a thought he quickly smothers - at least now he knew Allen had stayed safe when whatever happened in Oakhurst finished.
"I suppose I got caught up in the moment, or rather the thought of seeing him again."
{ That makes him falter, if only for a split second, though he quickly covers it up again }
‘’ If that’s the closest you’ll get to an apology, I’ll take it. ‘’
{ His focus shifts to the portrait of Pyro, Shelby’s beside him and Avid’s next to her’s. When Abolish had first found Allen, he broke the news to them. Said he was there when Owen passed and Shelby instigated Pyro’s passing. And what did he offer next? A business card to reach him with and an offer to move in with Scott, Shelby and Drift once they’ve settled. When that didn’t work, he offered other solutions. Other condolences. Other ways to forgive and forget. Allen doesn’t recall what he said when he finally snapped, but it was the last he spoke to Abolish, and he’s proud of that. He’s never been such an easily forgetful man }
‘’ You know, it would make me so much happier if you stopped staring at me. As charming as that once was, I’m afraid you’ve lost that privilege. ‘’
Owen forces his gaze down to the ground, he was stubborn about many things but he was still respectful as much as he could be, and even more than that he wanted to make Allen happy if he could. He's already caused them plenty of pain, after all.
He fidgets with the fabric of his shirt, he can touch it yes but it feels like nothing, it's simply a mindless action. He shrinks in on himself slightly, an accidental, silent show of shame. Though he does take the fact that he hasn't yelled or told him to leave yet as a minor win. He tries to stay quiet but a question had been gnawing at his mind this whole time, and finally he blurted it out, the quietness of his own voice making him mentally cringe.
{ For a brief, fleeting moment, he cracked a smile. As terrorizing as Owen was, he was still Owen. That same quiet, grief-stricken man that Allen had found. That same respectful, devoted fool that they had once loved. Spirits, they had missed him . . . but not enough to forget }
‘’ I don’t know. ‘’
{ It was hard to admit. Allen hadn’t bothered keeping track of time, despite how habitual it was thanks to his bloodline. Frankly, his relationship with time was an unforgiving one. Therefore, he often chose to simply ignore it. But, somewhere deep down, he did still have a sense of time, and that sense gave him the truth of the hard matter }
Owen briefly glances back at Allen as he talks, but it's quick enough to barely be noticeable. There's a large part of him that wants to hug them, yet he's not even sure he could, and even more he doesn't wish to make them more irritated with him.
Owen wasn't quite sure how long was too long, or whether it meant Allen missed Oakhurst or missed him, nor would he ask, he didn't want to make things worse already. He nodded slightly and gave a small "Oh." He wasn't sure what else to say. What could he say to not make things worse?
He stares at his hands a moment instead of the floor, a short lived change as he quickly tries to pull his sleeves over them. A terrible thing about death was that he could no longer keep his bandages on every inch of him, he couldn't pull them over his hands anymore - something he did in Oakhurst before he had to use his claws as often - just so he didn't have to look at all the scars.
{ It’s in almost the blink of an eye that they silently move and take Owen’s hands in their own, pressing quick kisses to both before letting go and turning their back to him once more. Ghosts were tricky business as far as he had learned from the tales passed down by his ancestors. They could be touched, and they could touch, but only around a Clockmaker. There wasn’t much else documented past that. Not many had experienced an encounter with timely spirits, not since the incident. Perhaps that’s another reason Allen has been so hesitant to get near, much less touch, Owen. There’s too much uncertainty. Though, when has that ever stopped him }
Owen stops moving entirely for a moment, almost scared that if he moved he'd find out this was all an elaborate hallucination and he truly was still in hell. As it hit him that this was in fact stil real he questioned if ghosts could blush, if they could he was certain he was at the moment. He stares at his hands for another before he finally looks back up at them. If he were truly that mad at him Owen is almost certain he wouldn't have done that.
"I- hey- You can't just-!"
But they could, and he was sure they both knew that, because Owen was mad in some way but he wasn't insane enough to ever stop them from showing him love.
{ They sigh, feeling . . . well, simply feeling after what they had done. And so, to distract from the fact, he starts speaking again, shifting to look back at Louis’ portrait, with Owen’s hanging near to it }
‘’ When I drank from you, I got many memories that were not my own. Some belonged to the Doctor, some belonged to you . . . In all the time I’ve spent with them, I realized that our relationship was one giant cycle played over again. Love, lose, lose. First you lost Louis, then I lost you. And in the end? The losses—the grief—overpowers what once was love. ‘’
{ Finally, he moves his gaze back to Owen, looking at him for perhaps too long before speaking again }
‘’ I have decided, however, to not let the grief I have cause more losses. I have decided not to fall into the same position that you did. ‘’
Owen listens and continues to stare at the ground, after all they were entirely right. He knew to be ashamed now, he knew he had no right to stare at them, as he had already pointed out, and he knew he had no right to argue or try and justify himself. He can feel them staring at him and refuses all the more to look up in fear of finding any expression similar to what Louis' had been.
In fact, he wasn't sure any expression they could have at the moment would make him feel better.
He absent-mindedly rubs slightly at his hands, nearly still in disbelief that Allen could, and would, touch him.
{ They just stand there, watching him for a few minutes. It’s good that he feels ashamed, they keep thinking. He should feel ashamed. They should be happy about that. After all, one of the few things they wished for was to see him again and explain just how much he hurt them. But now . . . he was miserable enough. And so they decidedly stepped closer and took his hands once again in their own, silently praying that he’ll look at them again }
‘’ I’m not mad at you. I’m mad at what you did. I hope you recognize that. ‘’
{ After a beat, they press a kiss to one of his hands once again, before gently tracing the scarring. It takes some time before they finally admit it, but when they do, they’re sure to make sure it holds definite sincerity }
At first Owen nearly pulls away, even still he's unable to hide the slight flinch when they first grab his hands, and again they begin tracing his scars. Yet he leans their touch soon enough, he never could resist them much.
He stares at their hands for a moment before slowly trailing his gaze up his arms and to his face. He's sure that if he still could he would be blushing at the moment - not that he'd ever admit it. He slowly brings one of their hands to his lips, the gesture is there but he's unsure of how much they can feel it.
There's a large part of him that still wants to believe that he's mad at him, but who was he to call them a liar? He presses a second kiss to their hand.
{ They smile, eyes softening as they watch his every move. This is the man they loved. The one that they still love. And, admittedly, they’re quite proud of that. It’s almost unnoticeable, but a tear does roll down their cheek, and quickly afterwards, they pull him into a hug. He still feels real, even when he’s not. Maybe that’s the most tragic part of all }
‘’ I’ve missed you. I’ve missed you so, so much. I’m sorry . . . ‘’
Owen was sure if he could he'd be almost crying. He knew that it was his own fault for how Louis had to see him off, but still he couldn't quite comprehend how easily Allen would admit he still cares. He expected more anger.
"You have nothing to be sorry for. I missed you more than you could ever imagine."
{ He buries his face into the other’s shoulder, fisting his sweater to steady the shaking of his own violent sobs. It hurt. It hurt more than he ever could’ve expected it to hurt. And, for a split second, he loses control. The room shifts from the silent and cold estate hall to the open and warm grass of a graveyard. Despite having his eyes closed, he sees exactly what Owen sees. Too many graves marked with the last name “Scathelocke.” So many had been beaten and covered, but they all looked as though someone tried to keep care of them, albeit desperately and messily }
‘’ I-I’m sorry. I missed you. I swear I missed you. I love you, I love you . . . I’m sorry. ‘’
Owen glaces around the new surroundings before burrying his face into their hair. He couldn't quite feel them, but he knew exactly what it should feel like, he would almost say he could feel the phantom sensations. One of his hands moves to rest on the nape of their neck as he presses kiss to the top of their head.
He knew he could ask questions later, now was simply not the right time. He briefly wondered if they could feel him more than he could feel them, that would make sense.
{ They’re silent for a long time, breathing slowly steadying to a lull. Their grip of him never loosens, though. They’re terrified to turn around, even if they’ve already seen it a thousand times before. So instead, they focus on his words again, turning them over and over before gently pressing a kiss to his neck }
Owen kisses the top of their head again, his fingers tangling themselves into their hair. He'd missed this, he missed it far more than he could ever express with words. He wishes he could cry too, he knows he'd hate feeling weak but it would feel nice, relaxing even.
{ They purr, leaning into his hand around their neck while thoroughly enjoying the fleeting sensation of his fingers in their hair. Though, out of everything in that moment, it was the familiar nickname that made them pause, heart softening and breaking at its recall }
He can't help but giggle a little at their tone, and even more he can't help but start purring too - it's light, yes, but undoubtedly it's there. He presses another kiss to the top of their head, a part of him wanting to kiss their face but not wanting to move them. When he talks his voice is almost pure teasing.
{ They laugh, pulling away from his shoulder and easing their grip on him. They’ve missed this. They’ve missed him. His teasing, his shame, his love, his anger. They missed everything about him }
‘’ I guess so, though I can’t fathom why. ‘’
{ It’s another brief, fleeting second, but they lean up to steal a kiss from him, even though the action seems entirely pointless }
Owen smiles slightly as they kiss him, bringing the hand not already tangled in their hair to cup their cheek. He misses the feel of their skin, but this was still better than not being with them at all. He adores them, he truly does.
"How silly of you to think I could forget a single thing about you."
He presses a kiss to their cheek, a gesture fleeting and even more pointless than theirs, yet he knows they'll love it all the same.
Owen leans into it as much as he can, desperately wishing to feel them again. This was his own fault, and he knew that, but he still greatly regretted it now.
"You're so beautiful, sweetheart."
His thumb rubbed back and forth on their cheek, pointless now but the thought and geesturre still there.
{ They smile, choking on a sob before burring their face against him once more. After a moment, they pull a distance away from him and grab his arm, slowly trailing kisses up it, looking back at him every so often for some sort of response }
‘’ You flatter me. Even when you deserve it more . . . my handsome sire. ‘’
Owen can't help but watch them, memories causing phantom sensations; he's never been more grateful to have a good memory. He eventually grabs one of their hands and presses a kiss to the back of his hand.
"Is it flattery if it's the truth?..."
He pauses a moment, biting back the urge to say "I hate you" - even though they'd both knew it was a heatless statement by now.
{ They squeak when he kisses their hand, turning to look at him, though any ire that they might’ve had is immediately gone. So instead, they roll their eyes }
‘’ Perhaps. Perhaps not. ‘’
{ A smirk crosses their face when he brings up his loathing for that old title. They soon enough let go of his hand and move closer as to cup his face }
‘’ Oh, I know . . . but you get so riled up when I call you it, sire. And you’re very cute when you’re all riled up. ‘’
A small smile graces his face, the corners of his lips tipping upwards, as they squeak. Oh how he's missed this. He melts into their touch, as much as he can of course, tilting his head to press a light kiss against their palm.
"It's far closer to a statement than flattery."
Owen can't help but pout at them. He hates how well they know how to mess with him.
{ They hum, a slight blush crossing their face as he kisses their palm. Though, with just as much as a smirk, they steal a kiss from him. Despite the lack of life, the love and spark still lingers there }
He pressed another, slightly longer kiss against their palm. One perk of no longer being made of flesh abd blood was that he could no longer blush and encourage their shenanigans by doing so. It won't give them the same satisfaction now, a small win for him.
"I'm really not. Maybe you need to get your eyes checked, sweetheart."
